Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain, tingling, and numbness throughout the hand and arm due to a pinched nerve in the wrist. This nerve is the median nerve located on the palm side of your hand. This nerve also provides sensation and nerve signals to the muscles surrounding the thumb. If you are seeking treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, contact us today to get connected for physical medicine in Oceanside or Valley Stream.
Symptoms
- Numbness, tingling, and pain in your thumb and fingers
- Pain and burning that moves up the arm
- Wrist pain that occurs at night and interferes with sleep
- Weakness in your hand muscles
Causes
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when your wrist experiences too much pressure, which then causes the median nerve to become pinched as it moves through the wrist. Sources of carpal tunnel syndrome include the following:
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Fluid retention from pregnancy or menopause
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Autoimmune disorders
- Fractures or trauma to the wrist
Overextension of the wrist is also a leading cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. The following examples will often lead to overextended wrists:
- The position of your wrist when you are using a keyboard or mouse
- When you use vibrating power/hand tools
- Any repeated movements that overextend your wrist, such as playing the piano
Prevention Tips
Softer Touch: You may not realize it, but you could be using more pressure than you need to in your daily tasks. Your hand and wrist will benefit from using a gentler grip.
Take Breaks: Taking a 10-15 minute break to stretch your hands will help to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Try making a fist and then fan out your fingers as far as you can 5-10 times during this break time.
Change It Up: You should avoid repeating the same hand and wrist motions. Try switching hands or mixing up your tasks, which will reduce the pressure on your hands and wrist.
Watch Your Form: Try not to bend your wrist all the way up or down. Keeping it at a neutral, middle level is best.
Treatment Options
When it comes to treating carpal tunnel syndrome, there are many options available. These treatments range from making lifestyle changes to seeking physical therapy. One popular treatment option includes seeking physical medicine in Oceanside or Valley Stream like us in order to receive an effective course of action. Here at Comprehensive Healthcare Group, we are a multi-disciplinary practice offering a wide range of different treatment options for our patients.
Are you interested in setting up an appointment for physical medicine in Oceanside or Valley Stream? Be sure to contact us today.
