CARPAL TUNNELCarpal Tunnel Syndrome is the pain,

tingling and other problems in the wrist because of the nerves in the medial

part of the wrist having pressure put on it.

Explanation

The medial nerve and several tendons extend from the forearm to the hand through a small space in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. The medial nerve controls the movements and feelings in your thumb and first three fingers, which does not include the little finger.

What causes it?

The main cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is the repetitive movements in the wrists, especially if the wrist is pointed down(hand being lower than the wrist).

Smoking can cause reduced blood flow to the medial nerve.

Wrist injuries can potentially lead to carpal tunnel.

What causes it?

Swelling of the wrists during pregnancy Obesity. Rheumatoid Arthritis

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will perform a physical exam, ask about your health and activities, and you may have some tests done.

Your doctor will ask if you have any health problems, such as arthritis, hypothyroidism, or diabetes, or if you are pregnant. He will ask if you recently hurt your wrist, arm, or neck. Your doctor will ask about your daily routine and any recent activities that could have hurt your wrist.

How is it diagnosed?

The doctor will ask you about the following:

Feeling Strength Appearance of the wrist, neck, shoulders,

arms, and hands.

How is it treated?

Mild symptoms can be treated at home. Stop activities that cause numbness and

pain. Rest longer between activities. Ice the wrist for 10-15 minutes once and

hour or every two hours. Take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory to

help with the swelling and pain. Wear a splint at night to keep the wrist in

a good position (not bending).

The sooner you start treating it, the better chance you have of not causing your wrist long- term damage to the nerve, and relieving the symptoms.

Prevention

Keep your arm, hand, and finger muscles strong and flexible.

Stop activities that cause numbness or pain.

Switch hands and motions often to keep pressure off the wrist to keep the nerves from having too much stress at one time.

Wear a splint while you sleep, or at any time that you aren’t doing anything to keep the wrist in a ‘proper’ position.

Use correct posture.

Medication

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Relieves pain and swelling.

Corticosteroids. Only used when NSAID drugs do not effectively relieve the pain or swelling. They have side effects that should be considered. They can be taken in pill form or they can be injected in the wrist by a doctor.

Surgery

Most people are not recommended surgery unless the symptoms haven’t gone away over a long period of time.

Surgery is urgent if the nerve is damaged. If it’s not, then home treatments always suggested first.

Surgery

Carpal tunnel release surgery is used to reduce the pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It’s done by cutting the ligament that makes up the top of the carpal tunnel nerve. Cutting this ligament relieves pressure on the medial nerve. Anything else that may be putting pressure on the median nerve can also be removed during surgery.

Surgery

After surgery, patients should avoid any activities that may have cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and any other strenuous activities that may cause pain in the wrist, hand, or arm.

Where can you get information?

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) provides information to raise the public's awareness of musculoskeletal conditions, with preventive measures. The AAOS website contains information on orthopedic conditions and treatments, injury prevention, and wellness and exercise.

Where do you get information?

American Society for Surgery of the Hand (ASSH). ASSH is a professional organization of hand surgeons that provide education to the public about hand problems, such as Dupuytren's disease, carpal tunnel syndrome, and tennis elbow. ASSH also provides education about surgery and preventive tips to keep your hands safe.