What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression disorder caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. The median nerve controls sensation and muscle function in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. Compression of this nerve leads to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, pain, and, over time, muscle weakness.
Who Is at Risk?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect anyone, but some groups are at higher risk:
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Women over the age of 40
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Young men performing tasks that strain the wrist
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Pregnant women (due to hormonal changes)
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Individuals with occupations involving repetitive wrist use such as typing, computer work, cleaning, handcrafts, and carpentry
Treatment Options
1. Non-Surgical Methods
In early-diagnosed cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, the following treatments may be applied:
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Wrist Splint: Stabilizes the wrist to reduce pressure on the nerve, often recommended for use at night.
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Medication: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving drugs prescribed by a doctor.
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Steroid Injections: May be used to reduce local inflammation.
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Exercises: Specific movements to relieve the wrist and improve nerve mobility can help ease symptoms.
Post-Surgery Process
2. Surgical Treatment
In advanced cases where the condition has progressed and other methods are ineffective, surgical intervention may be required.
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Surgery Duration: The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes and can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia.
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Procedure: The carpal ligament causing compression of the median nerve is cut to relieve pressure on the nerve.
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After Surgery: The incision is closed with stitches, and a plaster splint is applied to keep the hand stable for a certain period.
Exercise Recommendations
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Open-Close Movement: Make a fist with your hand and open and close it 5–10 times while keeping it parallel to the ground.
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Hand Shaking: Hold your hands in front of your body and gently shake them for about 1 minute, several times a day.
Wrist Splint Use
Wearing a wrist splint helps keep the wrist in the correct position and reduces pressure on the nerve. It can be used both during the day and at night. By preventing involuntary wrist bending, it also improves sleep quality.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
The main symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Numbness, tingling, and loss of sensation in the fingers
Pain in the hand, fingers, and arm that worsens at night
Discomfort severe enough to disturb sleep
Pain and numbness during activities requiring hand strength, such as gripping, carrying, or cleaning
Spread of symptoms to the shoulder and neck
Muscle wasting and weakness in the thumb in advanced cases
Reduced ability to grasp and hold objects
Frequently Asked Questions:
In cases of severe pain, the use of topical pain relievers and anti-inflammatory gels can be effective. In addition, wrist splints used at night are highly safe and effective in reducing symptoms.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome is sometimes accompanied by pain, burning, tingling, and numbness that may extend to the elbows, arms, shoulders, and even the neck. Numbness and tingling are most commonly felt in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
- This condition is most commonly seen in pregnant women and in individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome after menopause.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be treated without surgery. The first step in treatment is to limit overuse and strain of the hand and wrist. During this period, a supportive wrist splint is also commonly recommended.
To help manage carpal tunnel syndrome, avoid forceful or repetitive hand and wrist movements, take breaks to rest your wrists, use a splint when needed, and maintain proper control of salt intake, hydration, and body weight. Performing wrist exercises regularly can also reduce the impact of the condition significantly.
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