Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the wrist and hand, causing pain, numbness, and tingling. This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, is compressed as it passes through the wrist.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by a number of factors, including:
- Repetitive hand movements: Repeated movements, such as typing or using a mouse, can cause the median nerve to become compressed.
- Wrist injury: An injury to the wrist can cause swelling and inflammation, which can compress the median nerve.
- Pregnancy: Pregnancy can cause swelling and fluid retention, which can compress the median nerve.
- Medical conditions: Medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and thyroid problems can increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can vary in severity, but often include:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and ring finger
- Pain or discomfort in the wrist and hand
- Weakness in the hand and difficulty gripping objects
- A sensation of electric shock in the affected fingers
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
There are several treatment options available for carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Wrist splinting: A wrist splint can be worn at night to keep the wrist in a neutral position, relieving pressure on the median nerve.
- Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help to manage mild to moderate pain. In more severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve strength and flexibility in the wrist and hand, reducing the risk of further injury.
- Injection therapies: Corticosteroid injections can help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the wrist and hand.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Most interventional pain procedures are done at the onsite procedure suite.
Don’t let carpal tunnel syndrome keep you from living your life. Lakeshore Pain and Spine Center is dedicated to providing personalized and compassionate care to help you achieve pain relief and improve your overall well-being. Call Lakeshore Pain and Spine Center or book an appointment online today.