What Could Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- January 12th, 2012
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Medical reports show that Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a nerve disorder located in the hands and wrist and is caused by putting too much pressure on the median nerve over long time periods.
The median nerve controls feeling in the palm side of the thumb and fingers and traverses the carpal tunnel, which joins the forearm and the hand. CTS is thought to be the end result of repetitive actions, although injury and arthritis have shown to play contributing roles as well. In the workplace, common activities for repetitive action include typing and consistent use of a keyboard. These activities may lead to CTS and several other workplace-related injuries. These actions place pressure on the median nerve and generate pain, numbness and tingling in the hand.
According to Dr. Michael Marion, Director of Hand Services at St. Joseph’s Orthopedic Institute, CTS can be treatable if it is diagnosed early. Doctors can determine the extent of CTS by way of X-rays, lab tests and a physical exam. Common symptoms of CTS are numbness, pain in the thumb and index finger, difficulty grasping and a weakened grip when picking things up.
Treatment of CTS may include simply resting the affected hand, stopping the activity that is resulting in the symptoms or wearing a wrist splint to take the pressure on the nerve away during those activities. Gentle stretching may be also beneficial in alleviating pain.
As Santa Monica Arm pain doctor, I understand the severity of workplace injuries and pain. If you suffer from chronic pain like CTS, call a Santa Monica pain management doctor if you notice recurring symptoms.
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