Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

The median nerve, which controls feeling in the thumb as well as the movement of all fingers except the pinky, runs the length of the arm and ends in the hand. When this nerve passes through the wrist, it travels through an opening called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel can narrow due to swelling, causing the common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Initially, you may notice that you wake up with numbness in your hands. It is possible for this numbness to radiate up your arm to your shoulder. Also, you can experience, burning, tingling, or numbness in your thumb, the palm of your hand, index finger, and middle finger. As the carpal tunnel syndrome progresses, you may lose grip strength in your hand, as well as coordination. Early treatment is important to have the best chance for improvement.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

While many people get carpal tunnel syndrome without any known cause, certain risk factors can make it more likely to occur. People that often perform repetitive motions are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. This is often due to professions that demand repetitive movements, such as:

• Assembly line worker
• Hair Stylist
• Sewer
• Any job that requires a lot of typing

In addition, certain diseases and medical conditions create a high risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. These include:

• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Hyperthyroidism
• Pregnancy
• Trauma

Getting an early and accurate diagnosis is essential. Dr. Shah has many years of experience in diagnosing and treating carpal tunnel syndrome and helping his patients get the relief that they need.

What treatments are available?

Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available. In many cases, lifestyle changes like stretching and refraining from repetitive motions are enough to improve the symptoms. You may also need to immobilize your wrist and hand to give your median nerve a rest. Medications that reduce inflammation can also be helpful. If your carpal tunnel syndrome is severe, surgical options are available.

Don’t wait to get the relief that you need. Call or go online today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Shah.