Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition often causing tingling, numbness and pain in the wrist and hand. It is three times more prevalent in women than men, largely due to it being a common condition during pregnancy and women having smaller wrists.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the medial nerve. This nerve passes through the carpal tunnel - a space in the wrist formed by the carpal bones and the flexor retinaculum (or transverse carpal ligament). The tendons of flexor digitorum superficialis and flexor pollicis longus also pass through this space.

Causes of a decrease in space in the tunnel include traumatic wrist injuries, repetitive wrist movements,fluid retention during pregnancy and arthritis.

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

A dull ache in the wrist and forearm; Pain which radiates into the thumb and fingers (excluding the little finger); Sensations of tingling or burning in the hand or fingers; Pain which is worse at night; Pain may radiate into the forearm, elbow or shoulder; Weakness in the fingers and hands.

There are also a couple of quick and easy tests which can be used in the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome. Tinels sign involves tapping over the carpal tunnel. A positive test reproduces the symptoms. Phalens test is where the patient places their hands at chest height with the finger tips of the two hands touching. They should flex the wrists so that the backs of the hands are together. Hold this position for a minute. Reproduction of any symptoms is a positive result.

There are many treatments which have been recommended for use in carpal tunnel syndrome. Generally it is treated conservatively with rest, splinting, anti-inflammatories and cold therapy, followed by a rehabilitation program once symptoms decrease. Persistent cases may require a surgical procedure known as a carpal tunnel release.

About the Author

Heidi Mills BSc (Hons) GSR is a graduate sports rehabilitator who runs a clinic in Norwich, UK. She also works for The Virtual Sports Injury Clinic. Click here to find out more about carpal tunnel syndrome treatment and rehabilitation.

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by: Heidi Total views: 6 Word Count: 333 Date: Mon, 23 Nov 2009 Time: 1:21 PM 0 comments

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