WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow structure in the wrist that serves as a passageway in the wrist for nerves and tendons of the hand and fingers. One of the nerves that pass through the carpal tunnel is the median nerve, which controls feelings in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers as well as the muscles around the base of the thumb.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed, leading to numbness, tingling, or weakness in the wrist or hand. The compression is caused by a narrowed carpal tunnel due to swelling or inflammation of the tendons that pass through it.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES AND RISK FACTORS FOR CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by the repetitive wrist and finger flexion or forceful hand movements due to sports or work-related activities. Other factors include hormone changes (e.g., related to pregnancy), age, or various medical conditions contributing to joint swelling.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
· Numbness and tingling in the hand/wrist/forearm
· Pain in the hand/wrist/forearm that can radiate to the shoulder
· Weakness in the muscles of the affected area, e.g., loss of grip strength
· Stiffness in the fingers (especially in the morning)
WHAT ARE THE TREATMENT OPTIONS?
· Rest
· Abandonment of aggravating activities
· Wearing a wrist splint during the day or at night
· Ice or anti-inflammatories for swelling and pain management during the acute phase
· Exercise rehabilitation that focuses on stretching, increasing range of motion, and improving strength.
EXERCISE PROGRAMMING AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES
The exercise protocol to prevent or improve carpal tunnel syndrome should focus on regaining the range of motion and strength of the elbow, wrist, finger extensors, and flexors. Apart from that, it is essential to reduce the risk factors associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, including taking frequent breaks, paying attention to your ergonomics, and improving your posture.
Discuss these options with your healthcare provider to determine which would be the best treatment approach for you.
This information is not intended or implied as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All the content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained here is for general information purposes only.
