Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve in your wrist gets compressed, leading to pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in your hand and fingers. Fortunately, CTS can often be managed or reversed with lifestyle changes, medications, or surgery.
Symptoms
CTS commonly causes:
- Pain in the palm, thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger
- Tingling, numbness, or increased pain, especially at night
- Weak grip, muscle shrinkage at the base of the thumb, and trouble moving your fingers
Causes
CTS is often caused by:
- Swelling or thickening of the tendons in the carpal tunnel
- Factors like obesity, pregnancy, arthritis, diabetes, and repetitive wrist movements
- Jobs involving repetitive gripping or wrist bending, such as assembly line work, construction, or extensive typing
Diagnosis
To diagnose CTS, doctors use:
- Physical exams and tests like Tinel’s sign and Phalen’s test
- Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function
Treatment
Treatment options for CTS include:
- Lifestyle Changes:
- Avoid activities that worsen symptoms
- Use ergonomic tools
- Wear a wrist splint
- Maintain proper posture
- Alternative Treatments:
- Acupuncture
- Yoga
- Chiropractic care
- Exercises:
- Finger stretching and nerve gliding exercises
- Specific stretches for the wrist and fingers
- Medications:
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen
- Corticosteroid injections for more severe cases
- Surgery:
- Carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary if symptoms persist. This involves cutting the ligament to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Risks of Untreated CTS
If left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage, resulting in lasting numbness and reduced hand function. Early diagnosis and proper treatment are important to prevent severe complications.