The Carpal Tunnel is a small passage in which tissues pass through. Once one tissue swells up, it puts pressure on the median nerve - a syndrome referred to as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. If this develops, a person usually feels numbness or pain. Thumb muscles will also become weaker and grasping things will be more difficult. Moreover, a shock-like sensation will be felt in the thumb and first three fingers.
What causes this syndrome? In many cases, it is hereditary. Some people are just born with smaller carpal tunnels. In other cases, the causes are age, hormonal changes due to pregnancy, obesity, hand movement or overuse of the hands, and smoking.
How is it treated? Surgeons will usually recommend a non-surgical treatment by changing the activities of the patients or through medications. A splint or brace may also be placed below the wrists while sleeping to keep the wrists steady at night. If these do not help, surgery may be another option. Open Release is one surgery that orthopedic surgeons do on patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. During the procedure, the surgeon will make an incision on the palm and cut the carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. After this, the incision will be closed and recovery will start.
While a patient is recovering, it is advised that changes will be made on the activities. This entails avoiding activities that may put pressure on the wrists. Various medications will be given and wrist exercises will also be recommended.
Do you think you have CTS? Early detection is very important if you feel you have CTS. Most of the time, non-surgical treatments can be used to fix the problem. For more information on this, visit your local orthopedic doctor in Asheboro NC and consult about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
