Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome begin gradually—without a specific injury. People having this syndrome often say their symptoms come and go at first. In a later stage, they occur more frequently, especially at night.
Symptoms include:
- Your fingers feel swollen
- Numbness, tingling, and burning sensation in your fingers
- Tingling that may travel up the forearm toward the shoulder
- Clumsiness in the hand
- Dropping things
Risk factors
Risk factors that can lead to the onset of this condition may be diverse, including:
- Activities or jobs that involve repetitive finger use
- Thyroid gland hormone imbalance (hypothyroidism)
- Old age
- A tumor in the carpal tunnel
- Alcoholism
- Diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Hand deformity
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Gout
Your doctor can usually diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome by asking about your symptoms and checking your hand. A treatment plan that fits your particular situation and your goals includes the following:
- Physical therapy
- Avoidance of aggravating activities
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- RICE — rest, ice, compression, and elevation
- Steroid injections
If your symptoms are getting worse or are not going away, your doctor will refer you to a specialist to discuss surgery to release the pressure on your median nerve.
Space City Pain specialists can confirm the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and use all the best techniques for eliminating pain. Book an appointment through the website, and get rid of your chronic pain for good.