New Delhi: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common neurological condition where the median nerve in the wrist’s carpal tunnel becomes compressed. According to reports, CTS is more common in women than men and usually affects people over 30 years of age. There are many risk factors linked to CTS including both medical and non-medical factors.
Dr Shivananda Pai, Consultant Neurology, KMC Hospital, Mangalore shared with News9, “Compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a small opening in the wrist, results in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). This compression leads to various symptoms that affect hand and wrist function.”
Symptoms
Common symptoms of CTS include:
• Numbness and Tingling: Often felt in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers.
• Pain: May radiate up the arm or be localised to the wrist.
• Weakness: Difficulty gripping objects, leading to frequent dropping of items.
• Burning Sensation: Especially in the thumb and fingers.
• Symptoms often worsen at night or with activities that involve prolonged use of the hands and wrists, such as typing or using a smartphone.
Causes
The following variables may have a role in the development of CTS:
• Repetitive Hand Movements: Activities that involve repetitive flexing of the wrist.
• Medical Conditions: Hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can increase swelling and pressure on the median nerve.
• Wrist Anatomy: Smaller carpal tunnels can predispose individuals to CTS.
Treatment
The severity of the illness determines the available treatment options:
• Lifestyle Modifications: Taking breaks from repetitive activities, using ergonomic tools, and wrist splinting.
• Medications: Pain and inflammation can be reduced by using nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).
• Steroid Injections: To decrease inflammation and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
• Surgery: Carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary for severe cases to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Permanence
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is not necessarily permanent. Early intervention can lead to full recovery, particularly with lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments. However, if left untreated or in severe cases, permanent nerve damage and muscle weakness can occur. Surgical intervention generally has a high success rate in alleviating symptoms and preventing long-term damage.
In summary, CTS is a manageable condition with proper treatment and early intervention, often leading to significant symptom relief and functional improvement.
According to reports, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is more common in women than men and usually affects people over 30 years of age. There are many risk factors linked to CTS including both medical and non-medical factors. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
