Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by pain, weakness and numbness in the figures and hands.  It occurs when the median nerve gets pinched or squeezed.  This nerve runs through a tunnel in the wrist that is formed by the bones and ligaments of the wrist.  Because the median nerve is linked to the hand, symptoms are felt over the thumb, index finger, middle finger and parts of the ring finger, and the palm in many cases as well.

Why does this happen?

There are several reasons the painful syndrome happens, but it usually comes down to 5 basic reasons,

1. Anatomic factors: A wrist fracture can narrow the space within the tunnel

2. Nerve damaging conditions: Diabetes and alcohol can result in permanent nerve damage

3. Inflammation: Illnesses that are characterized by inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis or an infection, can affect the tendons in your wrist, exerting pressure on your median nerve.

4. Change in the balance of body fluids:  Increased fluid can result in swelling of the tunnel resulting in compressed nerves.   Examples of this include pregnancy, menopause, obesity, thyroid disorders and kidney failure, among others.

5. Repetitive movements: This is common to certain jobs and can cause swelling and inflammation of the tendons resulting in nerve compression.  Some common movements or occupations associated with carpal tunnel are:

·         Typing

·         Electricians

·         Chef

·         Dentist

·         Teachers

·         Musicians

·         Construction workers

How can you treat carpal tunnel syndrome?

Some people with mild symptoms can ease their symptoms by taking more frequent breaks from their work, improving their posture, relaxing their grip or typing with less force.  Some clinicians also recommend keeping your hands warm, or applying cold packs to the wrist to reduce swelling. Conservative therapy such as those mentioned above might be beneficial to those who have mild- moderate symptoms for less than 3 months.

Another helpful remedy is wrist splinting. This is a splint that holds your wrist still while you sleep and can help relieve nighttime symptoms of tingling and numbness. This is a good option for those who are pregnant and have carpal tunnel syndrome, as it is a non-drug remedy.  Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs, may help relieve pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, but there is no evidence, that these drugs can actually improve the carpal tunnel syndrome itself.

Similarly, steroids in the form of injections or oral, can decrease inflammation and swelling which can relieve pressure on the median nerve.  The last resort treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is surgery.  It is only an option for those with severe or persistent symptoms.  The goal of surgery is to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the ligament pressing on it.