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2018-06-21

Is Carpel Tunnel Sysndrome a normal Condition?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a prevailing condition that causes numbness, tingling and other symptoms in the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome takes place when the nerves of the hand (also known as the median nerve) are constricted and compressed as it travels through the wrist along the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel protects the median nerve and flexor tendons that bend the fingers and thumb. A carpel tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of the wrist. The carpal tunnel protects the median nerve and flexor tendons that bend the fingers and thumb.

In most patients, carpal tunnel syndrome gets worse over time, therefore an early diagnosis and treatment is necessary. Over time, the obstruction of the carpel tunnel exerts abnormal pressure on the nerves which results in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.  The early symptoms can often be relieved with simple measures like wearing a wrist splint or avoiding certain activities. But, in case when the condition lasts too long, a surgery to take pressure off the median nerve may be recommended for some patients in order to avoid permanent damage. Carpal Tunnel rarely causes permanent nerve damage. Permanent, irreversible nerve damage is possible with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. However, Carpal tunnel syndrome usually isn’t very serious. With treatment, the pain will typically go away and you’ll have no lasting damage to your hand or wrist.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually start gradually. The first symptoms often include numbness or tingling in your thumb, index and middle fingers that comes and goes. Carpal tunnel syndrome may also cause discomfort in your wrist and the palm of your hand. These symptoms often occur while holding a steering wheel, phone or newspaper. The sensation may wake you from sleep. Many people “shake out” their hands to try to get rid of the numbness, but this feeling may become constant over time.

The most common causes include:

  • Anatomic factors
  • Sex
  • Nerve-damaging conditions
  • Inflammatory conditions
  • Obesity
  • Alterations in the balance of body fluids
  • Other medical factors
  • Workplace factors

Prevention Majors:

  • Reduce your force and relax your grip
  • Take frequent breaks
  • Watch your form
  • Improve your posture
  • Change your computer mouse
  • Keep your hands warm

Visit the doctor if you you observe persistent signs and symptoms suggestive of carpal tunnel syndrome that interfere with your normal activities and sleep patterns. Permanent nerve and muscle damage can occur without treatment hence, making it more worse!