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Do I Have Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome? |
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by: Alexis
Greenberg, Staff PT |
| Most of us use our hands
everyday at work and/or home. Maybe you've noticed a little pain or
tingling in them. Perhaps the pain occurs after performing a certain
activity for a while, especially something we do repetitively.
Eventually, it comes on without warning or maybe the pain wakes you at
night. These are classic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms and you
should read on to learn more about this potentially debilitating
condition. |
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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? |
| Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
(CTS) is a peripheral nerve entrapment neuropathy. The median
nerve becomes "entrapped" or compressed at the wrist on the
palm side of your hand. The carpal tunnel is a closed space covered by several
layers of tissues. Through this tunnel, the median nerve, along
with nine tendons pass through. During wrist and finger movement, these tendons and
the nerve must slide smoothly. When there is an imbalance
between the size of the tunnel and its contents, normal sliding
movements are prevented and pressure is placed on
the median nerve. This pressure translates to the pain felt in
the fingers and wrists characteristic of CTS. |
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Who is most likely
to have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? |
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CTS occurs in women twice as much than men,
and usually after the age of 40. There is some evidence that
women have smaller wrists but not correspondingly smaller tendons,
making them more susceptible to CTS for purely mechanical reasons.
Obesity has also been known to be risk factor. Within the last 10 years
there has been a higher incidence of CTS in younger persons,
especially those involved in work at the computer keyboard and in
repetitive manual labor. There is also a high level of CTS in both
wrists of one person, which may indicate systemic or physiologic
disorders as contributing factors. |
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What are the signs
and symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? |
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Pain in the wrist,
hand and/or fingers
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Numbness or tingling
in the wrist and/or fingers
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Pain during the night
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Possible weakness in the hand and
atrophy of muscle
It is important to note
that the above symptoms may be caused by other conditions. If
you have these symptoms, it is essential that you see a physician, who
can determine if it is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. |
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How can I prevent
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? |
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CTS can often be
prevented or alleviated by conservative methods, such as exercise and
a change in routine. Stretching and keeping the wrist flexible can
help. Below are some pictures of wrist stretches you can perform
anywhere. It is important to
hold the stretch gently and not to bounce during the stretch. Classically, a stretch is held for about 30 seconds
and completed about 4 to 5 times with a 10-15 second rest in between
repetitions. Using putty or squeezing a stress ball can help to strengthen the hand.
Resting splints are helpful for use at
work and at night. They maintain your wrist in a neutral
position, relieving pressure on the carpal tunnel. Simple
modifications can alleviate pain or help prevent it. Add
wrist support at the bottom of your keyboard and mouse. Change the
height of your work area to allow for better wrist and hand postures.
Take short, frequent breaks, and stretch throughout your day.
Most importantly,
remember to see your physician if you suspect you may be suffering
from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Don’t let your discomfort linger
for too long. The longer you wait, the greater the possibility
of needing surgery to repair the problem. |
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Exercises |
