Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common ailment that affects both men and women. It’s often associated with jobs that require a lot of repetitive wrist movements such as typing on a keyboard or writing, but there are other ways of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, and several ways to treat it. Clearway Pain Solutions is a comprehensive pain management clinic that can help you live a pain-free life.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
This syndrome develops as a result of a pinched nerve located in the wrist, called the median nerve. The median nerve supplies feeling and movement to the hand, and it occupies a space in the wrist called the carpal tunnel along with nine other tendons that pass from the forearm to the hand. When this tunnel is swollen, it applies pressure to the nerve and causes pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or a sense of weakness in the wrist and hand.
How Does the Carpal Tunnel Get Swollen?
There are several reasons why the carpal tunnel becomes swollen and puts pressure on the median nerve. The most common cause is inflammation following repetitive wrist movements like typing, texting, playing the piano, talking on the phone, or any activity that involves repetitive movements in the wrist. There are also a few diseases that can put people at a higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome such as a history of a broken wrist, pregnancy, thyroid problems, arthritis, obesity, and menopause.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome gradually increases in severity over time, and we refer to it as a progressive disease. Most people have most severe symptoms at night, which include burning, tingling, or numbness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle finger. Sometimes these symptoms can become so severe that you may not be able to hold things or make a fist.
How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
We treat carpal tunnel syndrome beginning with the wrist so you can find relief for your pain and avoid surgery. A wrist splint or brace is often a helpful first step, since they immobilize the wrist to take pressure off the median nerve. We also offer injections to reduce pain and numbness and are used to help patients avoid surgery. Often patients can avoid surgery with a combination of treatments based on their unique situation.
Schedule a Consultation
You deserve to live a pain-free life. Schedule a consultation at one of our several Clearway Pain Solutions centers to understand your treatment options and find holistic treatments to relieve your pain.
