What is carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a feeling of tingling, numbness or ‘pins and needles’ in your hand. This persistent unpleasant sensation is caused by pressure on or damage to the median nerve. The median nerve runs through a small opening in your wrist, called the carpal tunnel – which is where this condition gets its name. Pressure on the median nerve can be caused by anything that impinges on the carpal tunnel.
Illness and injury
Some illnesses can cause or exacerbate this peristent syndrome. Hypothyroidism, diabetes, gout, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis are just some of the illnesses that can have this effect whilst causing numbness or tingling.
Physical injuries to the wrist area can also have a causal effect or increase the risk. For example, the new bone that grows when a broken wrist is healing can take up space in the carpal tunnel, causing pressure on the median nerve.
Repeated movements
Certain repeated hand or wrist movements commonly cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Poorly positioned hands while typing at a computer keyboard or using a mouse are a common example of the very small movement that when repeated many times, can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Learn More
If you think you might have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, come and see the team at Our Chiro to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. While you are being treated for the unpleasant symptoms, we will also instruct you on exercises and correct posture to ensure your carpal tunnel is managed, and future recurrences are minimised. More severe cases require surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome.
