Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is the carpal tunnel?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway made up of bones and ligaments, and when it becomes inflamed or swollen, it can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to symptoms.

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What causes carpal tunnel syndrome

Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome can include repetitive motions of the hand and wrist, such as typing or using a computer mouse, as well as trauma, arthritis, diabetes, and pregnancy.

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Do I need any scans to see if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?

Imaging findings for carpal tunnel syndrome may include narrowing of the carpal tunnel on x-ray or MRI, and sometimes even thickening or enlargement of the median nerve.

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What does carpal tunnel feel like?

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and wrist, particularly in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. There may also be weakness and difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks. The symptoms may be worse at night or during activities that involve repetitive use of the affected hand.

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What are the treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome include rest and avoiding activities that exacerbate the symptoms, wrist splinting to reduce pressure on the median nerve, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, and corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling and pain.

Exercise can also play an important role in the management of carpal tunnel syndrome. Strengthening exercises for the muscles of the hand, wrist, and forearm can help improve overall function and reduce the strain on the affected area. Stretching and soft tissue mobilization techniques can also help reduce pain and improve flexibility.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the median nerve. This may involve cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel to create more space for the nerve to pass through.

If you suspect you have carpal tunnel syndrome, it is important to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare provider. With proper diagnosis and management, most people with carpal tunnel syndrome can recover fully and return to their normal activities.

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