Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand, housing the median nerve and tendons. When the median nerve is compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm.

Causes

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be caused by various factors, including:

Repetitive Motion
Repetitive hand and wrist movements, particularly those involving prolonged flexion and extension, such as typing, sewing, or assembly line work.
Medical Conditions
Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid dysfunction can increase the risk of developing CTS.
Pregnancy
Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to swelling, which may compress the median nerve.
Injury or Trauma
Wrist injuries, such as fractures or sprains, can cause swelling and lead to CTS.
Anatomy
Structural differences in the wrist can increase the risk of CTS, such as having a smaller carpal tunnel
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Symptoms

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Numbness and Tingling:Numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. This sensation often occurs during activities such as driving or holding a phone and can wake you from sleep.

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Pain:Pain in the wrist, palm, or forearm, which may extend up to the shoulder.

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Weakness: Weakness in the hand and a tendency to drop objects.

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Clumsiness: Difficulty performing fine motor tasks, such as buttoning clothes.

Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Medical History and Physical Examination: Assessment of symptoms, hand function, and wrist movements. Specific tests, such as Tinel’s sign (tapping over the median nerve) and Phalen’s test (flexing the wrist to see if symptoms are reproduced), can help diagnose CTS.

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Nerve Conduction Studies: Tests to measure the electrical activity of the median nerve and assess how well it is functioning.

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Electromyography (EMG): Tests to evaluate the electrical activity of muscles controlled by the median nerve.

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Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI may be used to identify structural abnormalities in the wrist.

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When to See a Doctor

Consult a doctor if you have:

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When your wrist pain is severe

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Persistent by significant numbness

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Persistent by significant swelling

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Difficulty performing daily tasks

Treatment Options

Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome aims to relieve symptoms and prevent further nerve damage. Options include:

Conservative Treatments:
  • Rest: Avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.
  • Ice: Applying ice packs to reduce swelling.
  • Wrist Splinting: Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, to keep the wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
  • Medications: NSAIDs to reduce pain and inflammation.
  • Activity Modification: Adjusting workstations and tools to reduce strain on the wrist.
  • Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve wrist function and reduce symptoms.

Pain Interventions

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Hydrodissection of median nerve: It is a technique used for treating nerve entrapments which involves injection of anesthetic, saline to separate the nerve from surrounding tissue,fascia, or adjacent structures resulting in pain relief.

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Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

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Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Injecting concentrated platelets from the patient’s own blood to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

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Prevention

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Ergonomic Adjustments: Ensuring workstations and tools are designed to minimize wrist strain.

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Frequent Breaks: Taking regular breaks from repetitive tasks to rest the hands and wrists.

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Proper Technique: Using proper hand and wrist positioning during activities.

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Stretching and Strengthening: Performing exercises to maintain flexibility and strength in the hands and wrists.

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Wrist Support: Using wrist splints or supports during activities that put strain on the wrists.

Conclusion

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, most individuals can manage symptoms and prevent further complications. Early intervention, a tailored treatment plan, and preventive measures are crucial for successful management and long-term wrist health. If you experience symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, consult our specialists at ALGOS, for comprehensive care and personalized treatment options.

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Effective Pain Treatments

At ALGOS, we specialize in treating a wide range of chronic pain conditions without the need for surgery to help you achieve lasting relief and regain your mobility.

Located centrally on Cunningham Road, Bengaluru, opposite Indian Express, our clinic is easily accessible from all parts of the city, ensuring high-quality pain management services are available to everyone.

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