It seems as if most of our everyday tasks depend on computers or electronic devices. We type emails and documents rather than handwriting, text rather than calling, and generally spend most of our days interacting with keyboards and touchscreens. This explosion of technology carries many benefits, but does have some drawbacks. One such drawback is increased prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS, and we see patients with this every day.
But was it CTS, how can we prevent it, and how can you cope with it if you have it?
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a pain condition that affects the hand and arm, particularly the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage located on the palm side of each wrist, bound by a thin band of ligament. Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause numbness, tingling, or pain in this area as well as the hands and arms. It’s usually due to a pinched nerve, often caused by repetitive motions such as typing. Other causes of CTS include chronic inflammatory conditions, wrist or hand fractures, or repeated exercise that requires wrist flexing, such as weight lifting or upper body workouts. This condition is typically diagnosed with nerve conduction study, which we offer.
CTS Prevention
Carpal tunnel syndrome is highly preventable if you know what symptoms to watch for. If you notice numbness, weakness or tingling in your hand or wrist, stop any repetitive activity for as long as you can. Gently stretch your hands or wrists for a few minutes between long bouts of typing, writing and other manual tasks. Additionally, keep these tips in mind:
- Write or type softly. Pressing down hard or striking keys with too much force puts more strain on the carpal tunnel and associated muscles.
- Keep keyboards at elbow height or lower to avoid straining your wrists.
- Maintain good posture so your shoulders do not roll forward. Incorrect posture compresses neck, wrist and hand nerves.
- Keep your hands warm, especially if work or hobbies involve cold environments.
CTS Treatment
There are several minimally invasive ways to treat CTS, and our staff is highly trained in all options. We can prescribe the correct medication for your situation. For infrequent or mild CTS, we recommend a combination of medications and home remedies, such as icing affected areas. We also recommend temporary hand and wrist braces and muscle-strengthening therapies.
For severe CTS, patients may consider corticosteroid injections, nerve blocks and other injection types performed with local anesthetic when necessary. Should conservative treatments fail, patients may benefit from carpal tunnel release, a minor surgical procedure.
If you’re experiencing the symptoms of CTS, don’t wait for the condition to progress. Contact us at (615) 410-4990 or request an appointment.