What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel affects the hand and wrist. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome happens when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to your hand through a narrow space called the carpal tunnel, is compressed or pinched. Symptoms of carpel tunnel include numbness, tingling and pain usually in your thumb and the first three fingers of your hand. Anything that makes the carpal tunnel smaller-and pinches the median nerve-can result in carpal tunnel syndrome. This can include medical conditions
such as hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes. Repetitive hands movements, especially if the wrist is bent so that your hands are lower than your wrists can increases chances.
Treatments
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is very common with more than 3 million U.S cases per year. While it can be uncomfortable and painful, you can treat it at home. The first step to take is to be aware of your body ergonomics and if possible stop the activity that is causing the compression or attempt to reduce the activity until symptoms improve. Here are five ways to treat your carpal tunnel syndrome before taking
the step to surgery:
1. Implement Professional Massage Therapy Sessions consistently targeting your upper body
extremities
2. Ice your wrist or soak it in an ice bath for 10 minutes to 15 minutes once or twice an hour.
3. Buy a wrist splint at the drugstore to keep your hand properly aligned
4. Perform flexion and extension stretching to stimulate range of motion
5. Ancient methods of consuming herbs like turmeric and ginger to help reduce joint swelling and inflammation can help.
When its time to see the doctor
If these self-care tips don’t ease your pain in one or two weeks, it might be time to see an orthopedic physician, who specializes in treatment of bones, joints, and muscles. In some chronic cases, your doctor may suggest a surgery that involves cutting the band of tissue in the wrist that crosses the median nerve to lessen the pressure. Consult with your family physician for options and never stop listening to your body.
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