Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common issue that can cause significant pain. It is the condition that occurs when the nerve in the carpal tunnel, the narrow passageway that runs along your wrist on the palm side, becomes compressed. This can cause pain, tingling, and numbness. Continue reading to learn more about the symptoms and potential risk factors for this condition.
What are the Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
While this issue can affect nearly anyone, there are several factors that are considered to raise an individual’s risk, including:
· Having abnormally small bones between the wrist and hands
· Making frequent and repetitive motions with your hands
· Having rheumatoid arthritis
· Having hyperthyroidism
· Having diabetes
· Being obese
What are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The symptoms of this condition are often felt in the thumb and all of the fingers except for the pinky. In the beginning, symptoms often appear overnight due to people sleeping in a way that puts pressure on their wrists. It eventually starts happening more frequently. Common symptoms include:
· Tingling, burning, or numbness in fingers
· Fingers feeling, but not looking, swollen
· Feeling slight electric “shocks” in your fingers
· Tingling and/or pain that travels from your fingers up your arms
· An inability to pinch and grasp
· Having difficulty making a fist
How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
In the beginning, there are several self-care methods you can try to alleviate the symptoms of this condition. These include soaking your wrist in an ice bath for 10-15 minutes every hour or so. You may also want to experiment with different sleeping positions until you find one that does not place pressure on your wrists. Switching the way you do certain activities can help as well. An example would be alternating which hand you use for certain tasks when possible.
There are many other potential ways to tackle the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Wrist braces, steroids, physical or occupational therapy, surgery, yoga, or acupuncture may help. It is important to sit down with an expert and discuss your symptoms so that the best possible treatment plan for you can be created.
Get In Touch with Us for More Information
If you would like to learn even more about carpal tunnel syndrome and what can be done about it, make an appointment with Austin Neurosurgeons. At our convenient location in Austin, TX, a member of our team would be happy to speak with you and help you structure a personalized treatment. Contact us today to set up your consultation!