Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the wrist and hand, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers. It is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, with women being more commonly affected than men. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available with a special focus on physiotherapy treatment.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that is formed by the bones of the wrist and a thick band of connective tissue called the transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve, which controls the sensation and movement of the thumb and fingers, runs through this tunnel along with several tendons. When the median nerve becomes compressed or squeezed as it passes through the carpal tunnel, it can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive hand motions, injury to the wrist, medical conditions, and hormonal changes. Repetitive hand motions, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or playing an instrument, can cause inflammation and swelling in the wrist, which can put pressure on the median nerve. Injury to the wrist, such as a sprain or fracture, can cause swelling and pressure on the median nerve. Medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and swelling in the wrist, leading to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Hormonal changes, such as those that occur during pregnancy, can cause fluid retention and swelling in the wrist, leading to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

What are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The symptoms can vary from person to person, but they often include:

1. Tingling or numbness in the fingers and/or hand
2. Pain in the wrist, hand, or forearm
3. Weakness in the hand
4. Difficulty gripping objects
5. Decreased hand coordination
6. Loss of sensation in the fingers
7. Burning or itching sensation in the palm of the hand

The symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can range from mild to severe and can often be worse at night. If left untreated, the symptoms can become more severe, and the individual may experience a loss of hand function.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?

It is typically diagnosed through a physical exam and a review of the individual’s medical history. The physical exam may include tests to assess the individual’s range of motion, strength, and sensation in the hand and wrist. A doctor may also perform a nerve conduction study, which involves applying a small electric shock to the median nerve to measure how quickly the nerve signals are transmitted.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?

There are several treatment options available for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, depending on the severity of the condition. The most common treatment options include:

1. Resting the affected hand and wrist to reduce inflammation and swelling.
2. Wearing a wrist brace or splint to keep the wrist in a neutral position and alleviate pressure on the median nerve.
3. Taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to reduce pain and inflammation.
4. In severe cases, Corticosteroid injections into the wrist to reduce inflammation and swelling.
5. Surgery – such as carpal tunnel release surgery – to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

In most cases, non-surgical treatments are effective in relieving the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Surgery is typically reserved for individuals who have severe or long-standing symptoms that have not responded to any other treatments.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Physiotherapy can be a highly effective treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, especially in the early stages of the condition. A physiotherapist can assess the individual’s range of motion, strength, and sensation in the hand and wrist, and develop a personalized treatment plan to address the specific needs of the individual. Physiotherapy treatment may include:

Manual Therapy: A physiotherapist may use various manual therapy techniques to relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce inflammation and swelling in the wrist. These techniques may include soft tissue mobilization, joint mobilization, and nerve gliding exercises.

Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Stretching exercises can help to improve flexibility and reduce tension in the muscles and tendons surrounding the wrist. Strengthening exercises can help to improve grip strength and hand function.

Ergonomic Assessment: A physiotherapist can assess the individual’s workstation or equipment and make recommendations to improve ergonomics and reduce the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in the future.

Modalities: A physiotherapist may use modalities such as Laser therapy, ultrasound or electrical stimulation to help reduce pain and inflammation in the wrist.

Education: A physiotherapist can educate the individual on proper hand and wrist posture and provide advice on how to avoid activities that may aggravate it’s symptoms.

Physiotherapy treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is generally safe and non-invasive, making it an attractive option for individuals who wish to avoid surgery or medication. However, it is important to note that physiotherapy treatment may not be appropriate for all individuals, and a consultation with a qualified physiotherapist is necessary to determine the best course of treatment for each individual.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that can cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive hand motions, injury to the wrist, medical conditions, and hormonal changes. Treatment options may include rest, wrist braces, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, and surgery. Physiotherapy can also be a highly effective treatment option, especially in the early stages of the condition. Physiotherapy treatment may include manual therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, ergonomic assessment, modalities, and education. If you are experiencing symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

Also Read: Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment Options and How Physiotherapy Can Help

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