Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common problem that affects the wrist and hand. It runs through a tight space in the wrist called the Carpal tunnel, which holds tendons and the median nerve. This nerve is prone to compression, which can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, in which the nerves are entrapped and result in wrist pain. If not treated, CTS can worsen, making daily tasks difficult and even causing permanent nerve damage.

We know carpal tunnel syndrome can be debilitating, so at Narayana Health, you are not alone, and we aim to put the information in your hands (not wrists) to help you manage a situation with long-term comfort. It could be painless or cause severe nerve compression, but whatever the appropriate treatment is, learn how you can deal with it.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Causes and Risk Factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Did You Know?
Myths and Facts About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Whom to Consult
Frequently Asked Questions

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by median nerve compression in the wrist. The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow space made of bones and ligaments. This nerve provides sensation to most of the fingers and controls thumb movement. When the tissues around the carpal tunnel swell or compress, they can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome.

CTS is often linked to repetitive strain injuries, which can happen due to prolonged activities that involve the wrist, such as typing, using tools, or certain sports. Left untreated, the condition can lead to hand numbness, weakness, and difficulties with gripping objects.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually start gradually and worsen over time. The most common symptoms include:

Numbness and tingling: Often in the thumb, index, middle, or ring fingers. This may extend to the hand or forearm.
Wrist pain: Pain may feel like a burning or aching sensation, often disrupting sleep.
Hand weakness: Difficulty gripping or holding objects.
Nerve entrapment: A feeling of tightness or pressure in the wrist area due to nerve compression.
Loss of coordination: Trouble with fine motor tasks, such as buttoning clothes or writing.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider to prevent further complications.

Potential Causes and Risk Factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The main cause is median nerve compression, which can result from:

Repetitive strain injury: Prolonged repetitive motions, such as typing or tool use.
Inflammation: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can cause swelling around the wrist, leading to nerve entrapment.
Wrist fractures or sprains: These injuries can reduce space in the carpal tunnel.
Medical conditions: Hypothyroidism, diabetes, and obesity increase the risk of CTS.
Genetics: A family history of carpal tunnel syndrome may make individuals more prone to developing it.

Other risk factors include pregnancy, frequent use of vibrating tools, and jobs that require repeated wrist motions.

Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome typically includes a physical examination, a review of the patient's medical history, and various diagnostic tests. A healthcare provider will assess wrist pain, numbness, and grip strength, and may recommend the following tests:

Tinel’s sign test: A gentle tapping on the median nerve to assess sensitivity.
Phalen’s test: Flexing the wrist to check for tingling or numbness.
Electromyography (EMG): Evaluates the function of the muscles and nerves.
Ultrasound or MRI: Used to view the structure of the carpal tunnel and surrounding tissues.

Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent worsening symptoms and long-term nerve damage.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome varies based on the severity of symptoms. Nonsurgical treatments are usually tried first, including:

Wrist splints: To keep the wrist in a neutral position, particularly during sleep, to reduce pressure on the median nerve.
Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the wrist and improve flexibility.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often used to help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.
Corticosteroid injections: Used to reduce inflammation around the median nerve.

In cases where symptoms persist, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended. Surgical treatment involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve, providing relief from symptoms. Most people recover within a few weeks and experience significant relief.

Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Although it can be difficult to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome completely, certain lifestyle changes may help reduce the risk. These include:

Taking regular breaks: Especially during repetitive tasks like typing or tool use.
Stretching exercises: Stretching your wrists and hands can improve flexibility and reduce strain.
Maintaining good posture: Proper ergonomics while working can prevent repetitive strain injuries.
Wearing wrist supports: Especially during activities that strain the wrist.

Taking proactive steps can minimise the risk of median nerve compression and keep symptoms at bay.

Did You Know?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most commonly reported nerve entrapment syndromes. There are almost 10 million cases present in India alone, making it a significant health concern, particularly among individuals engaged in repetitive wrist movements like typing, tailoring, or assembly line work.
Women are three times more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

Myths and Facts About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Myth 1: Carpal tunnel syndrome only affects those who type a lot.
Fact: While typing is a risk factor, CTS can affect anyone who performs repetitive wrist movements, such as using tools or playing certain musical instruments.

Myth 2: Surgery is the only effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Fact: Many people find relief with non-surgical treatments, such as wrist splints, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections.

Myth 3: Carpal tunnel syndrome always causes pain.
Fact: CTS may cause numbness or tingling without any pain. It's important to address these early symptoms before they worsen.

Get Expert Care at Narayana Health

Dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome can be challenging, but with the right treatment and care, relief is possible. At Narayana Health, we provide comprehensive treatment options, from nonsurgical therapies to carpal tunnel release surgery, tailored to your specific needs. If you're experiencing wrist pain, hand numbness, or other symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, don’t wait.

Contact Narayana Health today to receive expert advice and effective treatment for long-lasting relief.

Don’t Delay-- Call us @ 08068617735

Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel

Q. What are the 5 symptoms of carpal tunnel?
A. Following are the most common symptoms:

Weakness
Pain or numbness in hands.
"Pins and needles" sensation in the fingers.
Swollen fingers.
Burning or tingling, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers.

Q. Can the carpal tunnel go away?
A. Carpal tunnel syndrome can improve with rest or by avoiding repetitive wrist motions, but it usually requires diagnosis and treatment from a healthcare provider to fully heal.

Q. What is the main cause of carpal tunnel syndrome?
A. The main cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is pressure on the median nerve in the wrist.

Q. How to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome?
A. To avoid carpal tunnel syndrome, maintain good wrist posture, take frequent breaks, and avoid repetitive wrist motions.

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Reference Links:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4005-carpal-tunnel-syndrome
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603

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