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esCarpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to a condition that frequently manifests with numb, tingly hands or arms with a feeling of progressive weakness.
It is not an uncommon condition, but can severely limit your everyday activities, especially if you are someone who spends a lot of time typing words at a computer.
The reason for these symptoms is actually pretty simple. The median nerve, one of the major nerves supplying the muscles of the hand, when compressed in the wrist area, results in carpal tunnel syndrome.
Primary treatment options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
This condition has a tendency to cause long-term damage to the nerve if left neglected. You must seek treatment immediately, because the earlier you begin, the more chances you have at a rapid recovery.
The following home remedies may be sufficient to address the issue in early days:
- Stopping activities that cause numbness or tingling
- Applying ice packs on your wrist
- Taking anti-inflammatory pain medications orally
- Using a wrist splint to relieve strain and pressure on your median nerve
You must consult your physician if pain persists even after these.
How will your doctor treat this condition?
Evaluation and proper diagnosis by the professional precedes treatment in all cases. If detected in early stages, the aim should be to stop the progression or at least, slow it down. Physical therapy and invasive procedures like pain injections and surgery are the only ways to solve this problem once the primary remedies have failed.
Exercises that aid in the free movement of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel may help with the pain in some cases. Corticosteroid injections may be advised for relieving pain and reducing inflammation and swelling. These are powerful anti-inflammatory agents that are effective, although temporarily, in calming down a flare of symptoms.
Surgical treatment is recommended if all else fails. Surgery can be of two types: open and endoscopic. Each has its own benefits but the ultimate goal is to heal carpal tunnel syndrome.
How to make sure it doesn’t return?
In order to ensure that carpal tunnel syndrome does not recur, you must be careful of your health and mindful of your habits. Regular exercise will keep you strong and flexible. If you have chronic diseases like diabetes or arthritis, be sure to follow your doctor’s advice to keep those in check.
Finally, take good care of your wrist and hands, and avoid long hours at the keyboard if you can help it.