How to Identify Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Do you have numbness, tingling, or pain in your hand or wrist? Do you drop or fumble objects? Do you wake up at night with a burning sensation in your fingers? If so, you might have carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve which runs from the forearm into the hand becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. Anyone can get carpal tunnel syndrome, but it’s more common among people who regularly use their hands or wrists for repetitive activities, including athletes, blue-collar workers, and various musicians.
Aging and other medical conditions also increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Long-lasting carpal tunnel syndrome can worsen and cause permanently damaged nerves, resulting in loss of feeling in the fingers and hands.
How Can You Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with various options, such as:
- Taking a break from activities that cause pain and swelling
- Wearing a wrist splint or brace
- Taking anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Naprosyn, Aleve)
- Applying ice or heat to your wrist when you feel the onset of pain
- Gentle forearm- and wrist-stretching exercises
- Getting corticosteroid injections
- Undergoing surgery
The right carpal tunnel treatment for you will depend on your individual situation. Your doctor will assess your symptoms, examine your medical history, perform a physical examination, and perform additional tests to confirm your diagnosis and determine the severity of your nerve damage.
When Should You See a Doctor for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
You should see a doctor as soon as possible if you have any signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications and improve your recovery. Make an appointment to see a doctor if the numbness or tingling in your hand lasts more than a week or interferes with your daily routine. When carpal tunnel syndrome worsens, signs of nerve damage such as loss of feeling or strength, can appear. You should also consult a doctor if you have other medical conditions currently affecting your nerves or joints.
The Bone Center of Yuma, an orthopedic and bone/joint healthcare center, is experienced in carpal tunnel syndrome treatment and serves the Yuma, AZ area. Other services offered at our clinic include treatment of knee, shoulder, and rotator cuff injuries/disorders, arthroscopic surgery, and sports medicine.
If you’d like to make an appointment with an orthopedic specialist, would like a free consultation, or if you’d just like some additional information about our practice, give us a call at (928) 726-1556 or visit our online appointment request page.
Related Posts
