Carpal tunnel is characterized by numbness and tingling sensations on the forearm or palm side of the hand. If untreated, the carpal tunnel can worsen and affect the nerves in your fingers. Severe cases could lead to irreversible loss of hand function. Board-certified surgeons from Mid Atlantic Orthopedic Associates, LLP, will tailor East Brunswick carpal tunnel treatment plan to your needs.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most prevalent neuropathies, accounting for 90% of neuropathic cases. Neuropathy refers to a group of conditions affecting the peripheral nerves.
CTS occurs when the median nerve is compressed or damaged as it passes through the hand’s carpal tunnel. The median nerve facilitates the movement of your wrist and fingers. It also picks up temperature sensations from the palm side of the hand, the nail bed of the middle, and the ring fingers.
The neuropathic condition develops when the median nerve sustains consistent pressure. A damaged nerve causes numbness and loss of sensation in your thumb or fingers.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel may include:
- Tingling and numbness in thumb, middle finger, and ring finger
- A tingling sensation from the wrist to the arm
- Sensations that feel like pins and needles
- Weakness in the wrist and thumb muscles
Carpal tunnel risks factors
Carpal tunnel is a prevalent compression neuropathy for people with rheumatoid arthritis. Bone spurs and tendon ruptures can damage the median nerve around the carpal tunnel area of the hand.
Excessive weight can also increase the risk of carpal tunnel. Obesity triggers inflammation and high blood pressure, exerting undue strain on the median nerve. Fortunately, losing weight may reverse nerve compression and help to manage symptoms.
Performing repetitive tasks may increase your risk of developing carpal tunnel. Typing, playing video games, or using vibration equipment may contribute to the symptoms.
CTS and potential complications
In the earliest phases of CTS, symptoms like numbness and tingling may emerge and disappear unpredictably. The sensations become more intense and persistent over time.
CTS can lead to serious complications if you delay treatment. CTS may cause irreversible damage to the median nerve and the loss of hand function. The muscles in your arms may shrink, reducing your ability to shrink objects.
You can limit and reverse the damage by adopting healthy lifestyle habits. It is advisable to take breaks and adjust your posture to avoid constricting your movements. Stretching exercises minimize nerve compression in the hand’s carpal tunnel.
CTS diagnosis and treatment
The treatment plan will depend on the factors causing CTS. Your provider may prescribe wrist bracing to limit hand movements.
The appliance could eliminate mild symptoms after a few weeks. While it is not as effective as other conventional alternatives, it has few side effects.
Your doctor may prescribe medication to manage inflammation around the carpal tunnel. Surgery is only considered viable in severe cases. The surgical procedure creates space in the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Consult Mid Atlantic Orthopedic Associates, LLP, to book a consultation today.
