Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition in which a nerve in the carpal tunnel is compressed. Carpal tunnel is a narrow passage located in the wrist. The person feels a tingling or numbing sensation in the arm or the hand. The disease is caused due to pressure on the median nerve and hence, is known as a condition of nerve entrapment.

Symptoms

People with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome often experience the following symptoms or signs:

  • Weakness in the hands
  • Numbness in the hands
  • Tingling sensations in the arms or hands
  • Sensations similar to an electric shock

Causes

The main causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are:

  • Pressure on the median nerve
  • Wrist fracture
  • Inflammation and swelling because of rheumatoid arthritis
  • Bone dislocation in the hand

Risks

Factors which increase the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:

  • Obesity
  • More common in women
  • Chronic illness
  • An anatomic factor
  • Fluid retention

Prevention

Here are some tips to help you reduce the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

  • Avoid smoking
  • Exercise daily
  • Restrict your salt intake

How is it diagnosed?

The preferred method used for diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a physical examination. Doctor assess the medical history of the patient and conducts various tests to diagnose Carpal Tunnel Syn...

How is it treated?

The objectives of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome treatment are to control the feeling of numbness and tingling in the hand and prevent further inconvenience to the patient. At Medanta, our medicinal services group will concentrate on helping you accomplis..

  • Endoscopic surgery

    In this surgery, the specialist uses a telescope device to assess the carpal tunnel. The specialist cuts the ligament through a small incision in the patient’s wrist or hand.

  • Corticosteroids

    Corticosteroids are used by the specialist to decrease swelling and inflammation which helps to reduce pressure on the median nerve. Corticosteroids are injected in the carpal tunnel during the treatment.

  • NSAIDs

    NSAIDs are known as Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and are used to reduce the inflammation and swelling in the hand through drugs like Advil, Motrin etc. They provide short term relief to the patient.

  • Ultrasound therapy

    In this therapy, the temperature of the body tissue is increased which helps to reduce the pain.

When do I contact the doctor?

Contact your doctor if you observe persistent symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can lead to permanent muscle damage if not treated properly.

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How does Medanta provide care?

Medanta Institute of Neurosciences is an integrated institute with a dedicated team of doctors supported by the latest technology which aims to provide comprehensive and multidisciplinary care for disorders of the brain and spine. The institute ha..

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