Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the wrist and hand. This syndrome is caused by a pinched nerve in a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a tunnel-shaped structure located between the wrist bones and the ligaments surrounding the wrist.

Contents:

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a pinched nerve in a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel, located between the wrist bones and the ligaments surrounding the wrist, protects important nerves and tendons that run from the wrist to the hand and fingers.

In carpal tunnel syndrome, symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand occur due to compression of the nerves in this tunnel. These symptoms usually radiate to the wrist and fingers and may increase, especially at night or during certain movements. It is often associated with repetitive hand movements, activities that strain the hands or wrists, pregnancy, obesity and diabetes.

Treatment usually involves rest, wrist splints, physical therapy, painkillers and rarely surgery.Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening and improve a person’s quality of life.It is therefore important for people experiencing symptoms to consult a doctor.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

  1. Repetitive Hand Movements: The risk of carpal tunnel may increase especially in occupations where repetitive movements of the hands and wrists are performed
  2. Hand and Wrist Injuries: Hand and wrist injuries can cause compression of the nerves in the carpal tunnel.
  3. Genetic Factors: In some people, the risk may be higher in individuals with a family history of carpal tunnel.
  4. Hormonal Changes: Hormonal changes such as pregnancy or menopause can trigger carpal tunnel syndrome.
  5. Medical Conditions: Some health conditions, especially diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and obesity, can increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
  6. Big Hands and Wrists: Larger than normal hands and wrists can cause more pressure on the nerves in the carpal tunnel.

These factors can increase a person’s likelihood of developing the syndrome, but because everyone’s lifestyle and genetic makeup are different, the causes of the syndrome can vary from individual to individual.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

  1. Pain in the Hand: Pain sensations, especially in the wrist and palm of the hand.
  2. Numbness and Tingling: Numbness and tingling sensation in the hand, wrist and fingers, especially at night or after prolonged hand use.
  3. Powerlessness: Feeling of weakness in the hands and fingers, difficulty grasping objects or performing daily activities.
  4. Parmaklarda His Kaybı: Sensory loss, especially in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and half fingers.
  5. Spread of Pain and Numbness: Pain and numbness radiating from the wrist and palm of the hand to the fingers.
  6. Night Pain: Pain that occurs especially during sleep can sometimes interrupt a person’s sleep.

These symptoms usually indicate carpal tunnel syndrome, but symptoms can vary from person to person. They may be associated with other health problems. If you are experiencing such symptoms, it is important to consult a health professional. This is because early diagnosis and treatment can prevent symptoms from worsening.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms, the person’s state of health and other factors. Treatment options may include:

  1. Rest and Activity Changes: It is important to rest the hand and wrist to relieve symptoms and avoid repetitive movements. Especially avoiding triggering activities can help reduce symptoms.
  2. Wrist Splints: Wrist splints, used day or night, can help stabilize the wrist in the correct position. It can help to compress the nerves less.
  3. Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the hand and wrist muscles and physical therapy sessions can reduce symptoms. They can improve the functionality of the hand.
  4. Painkillers: Anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications help to relieve symptoms by reducing pain and inflammation.
  5. Steroid Injections: Doctors can sometimes give corticosteroid injections into the carpal tunnel area. These injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
  6. Surgical Treatment: Surgical intervention may be needed in cases that do not relieve symptoms or in severe cases. Surgical procedures such as carpal tunnel release or carpal tunnel widening can help reduce symptoms by reducing pressure on the nerve.

Treatment options should always be tailored to the individual situation. If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult a health professional to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.

Conclusion:

As each patient is different, the treatment plan should be individualized. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to discuss appropriate treatment options. Starting treatment early can provide long-term relief and preserve the functionality of the hand.

Picture of Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar

Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar

Op. Dr. Özgür Oktay Nar, specialized in orthopedics and traumatology, is experienced in foot and ankle surgery, sports injuries and minimally invasive surgery. In his private practice, he offers personalized treatment plans to his patients and applies the most up-to-date treatment methods for a healthy and active life.

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