What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. The median nerve controls sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers. When this nerve is compressed, it can lead to a range of symptoms in the hand and arm.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

• Numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger.
• Weakness in the hand and difficulty gripping objects.
• A feeling of swelling in the fingers, even if no swelling is present.
• Symptoms often worsen at night and may be relieved by shaking or moving the hand.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

• Repetitive hand movements, especially those that involve prolonged flexing of the wrist.
• Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.
• Pregnancy, due to fluid retention that can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel.
• Wrist injuries or fractures.
• Genetic predisposition, as the carpal tunnel may be smaller in some individuals.

Diagnosis:

• Physical examination: Tinel’s sign (tapping on the median nerve to elicit symptoms) and Phalen’s maneuver (flexing the wrist to see if symptoms are reproduced).
• Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) to assess the function of the median nerve.
• Ultrasound or MRI may be used to visualize the carpal tunnel and surrounding structures.

Treatment:

• Non-surgical options:
  • Wrist splinting: Wearing a splint, especially at night, to keep the wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
  • Activity modification: Reducing or avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms.
  • Medications: NSAIDs for pain and inflammation.
  • Corticosteroid injections: To reduce inflammation and swelling in the carpal tunnel.
• Surgical options:
  • Carpal tunnel release surgery: A procedure to cut the ligament pressing on the median nerve, which can be done through open surgery or endoscopic techniques.

Prevention:

• Taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks involving the hands and wrists.
• Using ergonomic tools and workstations.
• Performing hand and wrist exercises to maintain flexibility and strength.
• Maintaining a healthy weight and managing underlying health conditions.

Early diagnosis and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome can help alleviate symptoms and prevent permanent nerve damage.

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