For all of those typers, sewers, painters, mechanics, musicians, racquetball champs, and do-it-yourselfers out there, listen up!
Are you familiar with carpal tunnel syndrome? If you’re not, you should be.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when unwanted pressure affects the median nerve, which is the nerve that passes through the wrist and ends in the hand. The median nerve lies with the carpal tunnel itself, hence the name, and it is what controls a substantial amount of hand and wrist movement and gives sensation to most of your fingers. So you’ve probably guessed— it’s kind of important, especially for people that use their hands and a lot.
These same people unfortunately are more at risk to develop carpal tunnel syndrome because of the repetitive motions they perform each day. Although, there are many ways to prevent carpal tunnel—some of which include good posture, having a more ergonomic work station, taking breaks, wearing supportive gear when playing sports, stretching, and resting.
However, even with the correct precautionary methods, carpal tunnel may still surface. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Limited movement in the hands, wrists and fingers
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Pain extending to the elbow
- Difficulty gripping
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s best to contact an orthopedic specialist to discuss a diagnosis and treatment options. Less invasive routes are the first approach, but surgery is sometimes necessary.
Carpal tunnel surgery is performed by cutting the ligament that forms the top of the tunnel on the palm side of the hand. While the incision point for this surgery may differ, the end objective is to decrease pressure on the median nerve. This surgical procedure is performed by an orthopedic surgeon and is typically known as carpal tunnel release surgery.
The recovery process after surgery may take several months and your doctor will know what’s best for you. So while the thought of surgery may not be appealing, living pain free and enjoying the activities you love sure is.