Because people constantly use and move their hands, these body parts are vulnerable to various health issues. Among the most common is carpal tunnel syndrome, which often requires the help of a hand specialist to manage. If you suspect you’re experiencing this condition, here's what to know about it.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The median nerve runs from the forearm to the hand, allowing the thumbs, forefingers, and index fingers to experience various sensations. It passes through the carpal tunnel, which is a narrow tube within the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome involves the median nerve experiencing pressure for any reason, becoming compressed and painful.

A common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome includes small and repetitive hand movements, such as using a laptop keyboard. The condition can also develop due to joint and bone diseases or frequent hand grasping. Illnesses that cause nerve damage, such as diabetes, can compromise the median nerves, too. 

What Are the Symptoms?

Common carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include numbness and pain in one or both hands, swelling, weakness when gripping objects, and tingling, burning, or prickling sensations in the fingers. 

The condition can worsen if you don't see a hand specialist and get the proper treatment. In this case, you could experience more severe symptoms such as hand weakness, frequent dropping of objects, and issues performing delicate motions like tying shoes or applying makeup. 

What Are the Treatment Options?

A hand specialist will determine if you have carpal tunnel syndrome by taking X-rays or performing other tests. If diagnosed, you'll receive a treatment regimen based on your overall health and the symptoms' severity. 

Common treatments include wearing wrist splints, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and making work and lifestyle changes. For example, symptoms caused by excessive keyboard usage can be alleviated by investing in an ergonomic keyboard and mouse. These items take pressure off the median nerves. Lowering or raising your desk chair can also be helpful because it reduces pressure on the wrists.

Severe symptoms could call for cortisone injections or surgery that reduces median nerve compression. If the latter is necessary, the specialist will cut the ligament encasing the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the median nerve. 

Should you need to see a hand specialist because of carpal tunnel syndrome, visit Independence Healthcare in Soldotna, AK. This center specializes in physical therapy, hand surgery, and orthopedics, among other services they always customize for the patient. Call (907) 262-6454 today to schedule an appointment, and visit the website to learn more about their services.