Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that can cause symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, particularly affecting the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. It occurs due to pressure on the median nerve that runs through the carpal tunnel passageway, which extends from your wrist to your hand. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can gradually become severe and more frequent over time.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can occur due to a variety of factors. It occurs more commonly in women than men, as well as in people with a family history of this condition. Additionally, people who experience joint or bone diseases such as arthritis, hormonal or metabolic shifts, changes to blood sugar levels, and other conditions or injuries affecting the wrists are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

One of the most common contributing factors in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome is repetitive movements involving the hands. These movements may involve typing, gripping, or flexing of the wrists.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated through non-surgical means and adjustments to regular activities such as taking breaks from typing, writing, or other repetitive motions to rest your hands, applying ice packs to reduce inflammation, and avoiding use of your hands in ways that may worsen your condition, when possible. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can also help to reduce any swelling that may be contributing to symptoms.

If you experience severe symptoms or do not find relief from these methods, you may require surgery, which involves cutting the tissue placing pressure on the median nerve. This is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home once it’s complete.