Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common medical condition that is caused due to inflammation of the median nerve. The median nerve is the major hand nerve that passes through the hand it supplies first two fingers and thumb. The condition causes ache and numbness in the hand.

Symptoms of Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • The symptoms of the condition start gradually and the pain is radiating in nature . The condition affects both the hands in more than 50% of the cases. The symptoms of the Carpal tunnel syndrome are:

    • Pain and Numbness
    • Weak grip
    • Pain at the base of the thumb
    • Tingling pain in the hand
    • Loss of grip

Causes of Carpal tunnel syndrome

  • The cause of Carpal tunnel syndrome is not exactly unknown, though the risk factors include:

    • Genetics or family history of the condition
    • Previous related injury
    • Obesity
    • Arthritis
    • Hormonal changes
    • Continuous work with vibrating tools
    • Excessive use of mouse and keyboard
    • Repetitive work that involves strong gripping of objects

Diagnosis

Various nerve condition studies are present that help in diagnosis of Carpal tunnel syndrome. Other conditions also easily get misdiagnosed as Carpal tunnel syndrome.

The various detailed tests like Hand elevation test, Phalen test, Tinel sign, Durkan test are carried out for the diagnosis. These are general physical examinations that are conducted by the doctor on the hand by examination of various movements.

Tests to find out other conditions like arthritis could be necessary. Other tests, whether required or not, depend on patient to patient and must be recommended by the consulting doctor.

An early diagnosis of the Carpal tunnel syndrome could help in improving the elevation of the condition. This then could also prevent, in some cases, the surgical treatment.

Treatment for Carpal tunnel syndrome

The non surgical treatment includes:

  • Corticosteroidinjections
  • Putting the wrist to rest
  • Medication (Steroid drugs or injections)
  • Wearing a splint or wrist strap to support and restrict the motion

A Carpal tunnel syndrome condition, which is not reliving even after non surgical remedies, could be treated by surgery as per the doctor’s suggestion after the diagnosis.

The surgery could involve loosening of tissues by making an incision over the palm or the wrist, depending up-on the condition and diagnosis by working on the hand tendons. Regular physiotherapy is advised after the surgery for regaining the full movement.

Carpal tunnel syndrome Prevention

  • Studies suggest that following certain way of lifestyle could reduce the Carpal tunnel syndrome. The changes include adapting a overall healthy lifestyle. Some of these include:

    • Control over repetitive work
    • Controlling obesity
    • Adapting relaxing exercising techniques like Yoga
    • Regular physical checkups

Recovery after treatment

The recovery could take up to a year or two and depends upon the extent of the condition.

A hand splint (strap) is advised to be put after the surgery. Physiotherapy and medication are must after the surgery. This allows the wrist and thumb muscles to strengthen, prevent pain and gain back the lost motion.

After the treatment and recovery, precautions must be taken to avoid the conditions that have elevated it. Repetitive motions are to be avoided and resting and regular exercises are to be continued. A regular physiotherapy plays an important role in total recovery.

Dr Parth Agrawal at The Upper Limb Clinic, Thane west, is dedicated clinic for all diseases related to Knee, Hand, Shoulder, Elbow and Wrist. Contact us today for Carpal tunnel syndrome condition to get better and accurate treatment.