Everything you need to know about Carpal Tunnel and how to treat it
- Sanskriti Kumar
- Dec 18, 2023
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 8
Do you feel wrist pain, numbness, and/or weakness in your hands? It could be symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) which is a common health condition that causes mild to extreme discomfort in your hands, wrists, and fingers. Learn about the causes and what you can do to treat and help with the discomfort.
What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel is the space in the wrist bones that allows ligaments, tendons and nerves to pass through to reach the hand. The syndrome develops when the median nerve is continuously compressed or irritated over a long period of time. The nerve is responsible for sensory and motor functions to the fingers which are compromised in CTS.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) may be a manifestation of a number of factors, including:
Workplace Conditions: A common cause is ergonomical inefficient workspaces where you spend a majority of your time. Through repetitive motions, those who perform assembly-line duties, work on a computer or use vibrating tools have a higher chance of developing carpal tunnel, especially if they work in cold conditions and/or already have nerve damage.
Biological Factors: A wrist fracture may explain why the median nerve feels irritated. However, conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and other chronic conditions can contribute to inflammation and swelling that compress the nerve. All conditions restrict the space through which the tendons and median nerve pass. People with a smaller carpal tunnel – mostly women – have a higher likelihood of developing the syndrome over time.
Physical Characteristics: Obesity or a condition causing the retention of fluid, including pregnancy or a thyroid disorder, can place additional pressure on the median nerve. Losing weight or starting a treatment plan to manage symptoms can decrease pressure placed on the median nerve.
How do I know I have Carpal Tunnel?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome happens over time due to the causes mentioned above. It could start with mild discomfort to extreme nerve pain if not corrected on time.
Here are some common symptoms to check for:
Pain and/or numbness in hands
Difficulty holding and gripping objects
"Pin and needles" feeling in fingers
Swollen fingers or wrist
Visit a healthcare provider as soon as you notice these symptoms or changes in your strength and feel of your hands and wrist for a diagnosis.
What CAN I DO TO TREAT Carpal Tunnel?
If you are facing any of these symptoms. you might have questions on how to relieve the wrist pain. Although the right treatment for you depends on different factors like severity and age, below are options that can help you navigate your CTS treatment:
Workspace changes: Making changes to how you sit/stand, getting ergonomically designed work equipment, and improving your posture in your workspace will help prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Physical therapy: Exercises and physical therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome will help strengthen the muscles around the wrist. Consult a physical therapist to strength your muscles and get an appropriate Carpal Tunnel treatment plan that works for you to avoid making the condition severe.
Surgery: Depending on the severity, your provider can recommend surgery which releases the nerve of the pressure. The recovery time depends on individuals' health and requires care and exercise.
In our current lifestyle, a lot of us are sitting or standing for prolonged periods in the same position which makes it easier to develop nerve or joint conditions. In this case, it is important to bring mobility in your lifestyle and not ignore any symptoms that you might be feeling in your hands and wrist.
