Carpal tunnel is a common syndrome that can greatly affect the condition of the hand and wrist. Its onset can be gradual, but when symptoms, flare they can affect quality of life considerably. It’s important to recognize the signs of a potential problem so you can see a professional for prompt treatment. Here’s what you should know.

A Guide to Carpal Tunnel

What exactly is carpal tunnel?

The tunnel itself is the slender channel in the palm of the hand that is completely surrounded by a series of eight bones and several ligaments. These parts protect the median nerve and the tendons responsible for bending your thumb and fingers. When pressure is put on this nerve, it can cause inflammation and discomfort that affects your ability to use and move your hand properly.

What are the symptoms?

While you may not notice symptoms right away, the first notable sign may be a sense of numbness and tingling in your thumb and fingers. This can affect your grip considerably, making it difficult to hold onto objects and perform your daily activities as you normally do. You may not feel pain, but persistent numbness can cause a generalized ache to develop. Left untreated, the discomfort can also affect your arm, shoulder, and even your neck. Additionally, a burning sensation can develop in the hand.

What causes this syndrome?

Gradual pressure placed on the median nerve is typically responsible for the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. While there’s no specific cause, the condition is often attributed to lifestyle. For example, people who work with tools that cause vibrations are at greater risk of developing it. People experiencing menopause and thyroid disease are also more inclined to have issues with their median nerve. Women are also at greater risk than men because their carpal tunnel is naturally smaller.

How is it treated?

If your doctor diagnoses the syndrome early enough, you may benefit from conservative treatments. Taking anti-inflammatory medication and splinting the wrist may be helpful. In more severe cases, surgical intervention may be required to achieve relief. One option is to relieve pressure on the nerve through a procedure known as open surgery; another involves using an endoscopic device to relieve pressure instead.

If you’re experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome or concerned about discomfort in your hand, visit Tri Rivers Musculoskeletal Centers in Wexford, PA. With six locations throughout Butler and Allegheny counties, the orthopedic center offers locals a convenient spot to experience relief. Rely on them to treat everything from joint pain to arthritis. Visit the website for more information, or call (866) 874-7483 to schedule an appointment.