Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the hand and wrist, causing pain, numbness, and tingling. It usually happens when the median nerve, which travels from the forearm to the hand, gets constricted or compressed as it passes through the wrist's fragile carpal tunnel. It is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive hand movements, injury, and underlying medical conditions.
If you suspect of having carpal tunnel syndrome, it is critical to be aware of the common symptoms, some of which we have listed below:
The most common symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome is the numbness or tingling sensation in the hands and fingers. Given that the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring fingers are innervated by the median nerve, you can have numbness or tingling in these areas. The tingling might be intermittent at first. However, it can become more frequent and constant over time.
Besides feeling numbness, carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause weakness in the hand or fingers. You might find it difficult while gripping objects or performing tasks requiring fine motor skills, like buttoning the shirt or typing on a keyboard. This weakness can also make it difficult to hold on to objects or perform repetitive motions with the hand or wrist.
Another common symptom of carpal tunnel is pain in the hand, wrist, or forearm. It can be dull or sharp and may be felt in the palm, the wrist, or the forearm. The pain may also radiate up the arm towards the elbow. You might experience it worsening at night and exacerbated by certain activities, such as typing or using tools.
Swelling is another crucial symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome. The hand or fingers may feel tight or bloated, in addition to the swelling, which can range from minor to severe. It might be more evident in the morning and get better later in the day. In rare circumstances, the swelling could be so bad that it turns things problematic to go about your daily business.
Paresthesia, a feeling of sensing pins and needles in the hand, is another critical symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome. You might feel this sensation in your hands or fingers. It may be accompanied by numbness or tingling. This sensation might be intermittent initially but can become more constant over time. Millions of people across the globe are affected by carpal tunnel syndrome - a common but severe hand condition. It is imperative to note its symptoms whenever you may start to feel any, including the numbness, tingling, swelling, and others mentioned above. If you are experiencing either of these symptoms, we recommend you visit a healthcare professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment for your condition. Your doctor might recommend a carpal tunnel wrist support brace besides physical therapy and, in rare cases, surgery as well. You must follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to improve the quality of your life.