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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

physician-Maushmi
Medically reviewed by Maushmi Sheth
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physician-Maushmi
Medically reviewed by Maushmi Sheth

This ailment is often called CTS. The problem is a typical and often debilitating disease. It affects millions of people around the world. It primarily affects the hands and wrists. It causes several disturbing markers that prevent a person from performing everyday tasks. Compression of the median nerve is associated with this сondition. It pinches the nerve as it passes through the wrist canal, a narrow passage in the wrist.

It is essential to understand all the subtleties of carpal tunnel syndrome to treat it in time. Understanding the complexity of CTS is critical for those at risk. People can effectively manage and alleviate the discomfort it brings. This, in turn, can significantly affect the quality of their life.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

CTS is a typical and often painful condition that affects the hand and wrist. Pressing of the middle nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, occurs when it passes through a narrow passage in the wrist. This compression can lead to a variety of manifestations and discomfort. It is essential to gain a complete understanding of this condition.

Carpal tunnel syndrome means :

  • Anatomy. The wrist canal is a narrow tunnel-like structure. It is formed by the carpal bones of the wrist and a strong band of connective tissue. Several structures coexist in this canal. These include tendons and the median nerve.
  • Reasons. CTS can develop due to several factors. The most common factors are repetitive motions of the hands and wrists and prolonged bending or extension. Hormonal changes, underlying sickness, and genetic predisposition are also reasons.
  • Symptoms. People with CTS often experience a range of signs. Among the main ones are numbness in index finger and thumb. They may also experience weakness, pain, or a tingling sensation. These manifestations are often more pronounced during activities that involve bending or extending the wrist.
  • Diagnostics. Diagnosing CTS usually involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and special tests. Among the tests, doctors conduct nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG). The doctor will use these tools to confirm the presence of the сondition.
  • Treatment options. Depending on the severity of the condition, approaches to treatment may differ. Patients can manage mild cases with lifestyle changes, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medications.  More severe cases may require corticosteroid injections or surgery.
  • Prevention and management. Preventative strategies include ergonomic workplace adjustments, breaks from repetitive tasks, and wrist exercises. Proper treatment of underlying conditions can also help reduce the risk of developing CTS.

Therefore, understanding the causes, markers, diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measures is essential for those affected by or at risk of developing CTS.
 carpal tunnel syndrome causes

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The middle nerve injury сondition occurs when the nerve is compressed.  Various factors can cause pressing, and it is more typical for female patients. 

What is a carpal tunnel? This trauma is often chronic and occurs as a result of occupational activity. Pathology is typical for musicians who type a lot on the keyboard. It is also characteristic of those performing minor monotonous work with fingers.

Compression of the median nerve and disruption of its blood supply lead to degenerative changes. There is growth of connective tissue over a long period.   The illness begins to develop when it disturbs perception, and neuropathic pain сondition appear. The course of the disease involves impaired motor function and movement disorders. But why does this happen?

Below, we present the causes of сarpal tunnel syndrome. 

Menopause and hormonal changes

Hormonal fluctuations can affect the tissues and structures inside the wrist canal. This potentially increases the risk of nerve pressing.

Factors of inheritance

There is some evidence that genetic factors may play a role in the development of CTS. If members of your family have had CTS, you may be at increased risk.

Injuries caused by external triggers

Carpal tunnel syndrome means that a person often has some injuries. Traumatic injuries to the wrist can cause swelling and compression of the middle nerve. This contributes to the development of CTS.

Inflammatory pain in joints and ligaments

Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory illnesses can cause inflammation in the wrist. This leads to swelling and pressure on the median nerve.

Tenosynovitis

Inflammation of the protective sheath (tenosynovium) around the tendons can increase the pressure inside the canal. This will potentially lead to CTS.

Benign or cancerous tumors

Tumors, benign or cancerous, in or around the wrist canal can put pressure on the middle nerve. This can cause manifestations of carpal tunnel syndrome, although this is rare.

Edema

General edema can occur due to obesity or fluid retention during pregnancy. This can put pressure on the median nerve in the carpal canal.

It is important to note that in many cases CTS is the result of a combination of these factors. If you suspect you have CTS, we recommend that you consult with a healthcare professional.

causes of carpal tunnel syndrome explained

 

Warning Signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The illness begins with sharp and constant pain, inflammation, and tingling in the heel of the affected hand. Numbness is also manifested for a long time. Seizures usually occur at night. Clinical cases may describe painful lesions on the one hand, but the сondition may be bilateral. You can eliminate unpleasant sensations by rubbing the problem area and shaking your hands. However, such procedures are valid only for a short time.

As the illness progresses, it adds paresthesias and impairs motor function to the pain. At the same time, the patient feels numbness in index finger and thumb. pressing of the middle nerve leads to difficulty grasping objects with the thumb. There is also a violation of the bending of 1-3 fingers. This creates problems in everyday life and limits professional activity.

Additionally, cold hands, inflammatory sensitization, swelling, and redness accompany such autonomic disorders. 

The potential patient must receive the correct diagnostic procedure to achieve a practical relief effect. Initial diagnostic actions are pretty simple. The doctor should tap in the area of the nerve of the hand. Clear pain reactions indicate canal syndrome. Passive hand movements provoke the development of unpleasant markers. Neurologists call this phenomenon Foville’s symptom.

The following examinations are performed to confirm the diagnosis:

  • electromyography;
  • radiography;
  • computed tomography;
  • MRI.

The above diagnostic methods help to obtain a reliable neurological diagnosis. It also helps to formulate a treatment plan for a positive outcome.

Conclusion

What is a carpal tunnel? In summary, CTS is a typical and often painful condition. It occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist. Various factors can cause this pressing. The main factors are hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, injuries, and inflammatory conditions.  As CTS progresses, it can lead to several troubling markers. The most common are pain, numbness, tingling, and impaired hand function.

Individuals can often manage mild cases with lifestyle changes, splinting, and anti-inflammatory medications. More severe cases may require surgical intervention. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are critical to the treatment of wrist tunnel syndrome. It is essential for people to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation. Contact Lone Star Neurology!

FAQ

  • What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is primarily caused by compression of the median nerve. Common contributing factors include:

  • repetitive movements of the hands and wrists,
  • prolonged flexion or extension of the wrist,
  • main ailments,
  • hormonal changes
  • genetic predisposition. 

 

  • What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome? 

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually include numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle finger. Weakness, pain, or a tingling sensation may also occur.

 

  • Which nerve is compressed in carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the median nerve. It is responsible for controlling sensation in the palm and fingers.

 

  • How to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome? 

You can prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by :

  • adjusting ergonomics at the workplace,
  • taking regular breaks during repetitive tasks,
  • practicing wrist exercises to maintain strength and flexibility.

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Edward Medina
Edward Medina
15:34 30 Jun 22
Just such an amazing staff that makes you feel like part of their family. I’ve been going there for over 5 years now... and each visit I get the very best care and treatments that I have ever received in the 20+ years that I’ve been dealing with severe debilitating migraines. Since i started seeing them the number of my migraines has dropped from 15-20 a month to 2-3 every 3 month. I highly recommend them …they will change your life!read more
Daneisha Johnson
Daneisha Johnson
22:20 19 May 22
Dr. Askari was very kind and explained everything so I could understand. The other staff were nice as well. I would... have gave 5 stars but I was a little taken aback when I checked in and had to pay 600.00 upfront. I think that should have been discussed in a appointment confirmation call or email just so I could have been prepared.read more
Jean Cooper
Jean Cooper
16:54 29 Apr 22
I love the office staff they are friendly and very helpful. Dr. JODIE is very caring and understanding to your needs... and wants to help you. I will go back. would recommend Dr. Dr. Jodie to other Patients in a heart beat. The team works well together.read more
Linda M
Linda M
19:40 02 Apr 22
I was obviously stressed, needing to see a neurologist. The staff was so patient and Dr. Ansari was so kind. At one... point he told me to relax, we have time, when I was relaying my history of my condition. That helped ease my stress. I have seen 3 other neurologists and he was the only one who performed any assessment tests on my cognitive and physical skills. At one point I couldn't complete two assessments and got upset and cried. I was told, it's OK. That's why you're here. I was truly impressed, and super pleased with the whole experience!read more
Leslie Durham
Leslie Durham
15:05 01 Apr 22
I've been coming here for about 5 years. The staff are ALWAYS friendly and knowledgeable. The Doctors are the absolute... best!! Jodie Moore is always in such a great mood which is a plus when you are already stressed. Highly recommendedread more
Monica Del Bosque
Monica Del Bosque
14:13 25 Mar 22
Since my first post my thoughts have changed here. It's unfortunate. My doctor and PA were great, but the office staff... is horrible. They never call you back when they say they will, they misinform you, they cause you too much stress wondering what's going on, they don't keep you posted. They never answer the phone. At this point I've left four messages in the last week, and I have sent three messages. Twice from their portal and one direct email. No response. My appointment is on Monday morning at 8:30am, no confirmation on my insurance and what's going on. What the heck is going on, this is ridiculous!I've given up... the stress her office staff has put me through is just not worth it. You can do so much better, please clean house, either change out your office staff, or find a way for them to be more efficient please. You have to do something. This is not how you want to run your practice. It leaves a very bad impression on your business.read more
Ron Buckholz
Ron Buckholz
23:32 23 Mar 22
I was actually pleasantly surprised with this visit! It took me a long time to get the appointment scheduled because no... one answers your phones EVER! After a month, I finally got in, and your staff was warm, friendly, and I was totally impressed! I feel like you will take care of my needs!read more
Steve Nabavi
Steve Nabavi
16:28 16 Mar 22
It was a nice visit. Happy staff doing all they can do to comfort the patients in a very calming environment. You ask... me they are earned a big gold star on the fridge. My only complaint they didn't give me any cookies.read more
Katie Lewis
Katie Lewis
16:10 10 Feb 22
Had very positive appointments with Jodie and Dr. Sheth for my migraine care. Jodie was so fast with the injections and... has so much valuable info. I started to feel light headed during checkout and the staff was SO helpful—giving me a chair, water, and taking me into a private room until I felt better. Highly recommend this practice for migraine patients, they know what they’re doing!!read more
Joshua Martinez
Joshua Martinez
16:02 10 Dec 21
I was scheduled to be checked and just want to say that the staff was fantastic. They were kind and helpful. I was... asked many questions related to what was going on and not once did I feel as though I was being brushed off. The front desk staff was especially great in assisting me. I'm scheduled to go back for a mri and am glad that I'll be going there.read more
Isabel Ivy
Isabel Ivy
21:42 03 Nov 21
I had such a good experience with Lone Star Neurology, Brent my MRI Tech was so awesome and made sure I was very... comfortable during the appointment. He gave me ear plugs, a pillow, leg support and blanket, easiest MRI ever lol 🤣 My 72 hour EEG nurse Amanda was also so awesome. She made sure I was take care of over the 3 days and took her time with the electrodes to make sure it was comfortable for me! Paige was also a huge help in answering all my questions when it came to my test results, and letting me know her honest opinions about how I should go forth with my treatment.read more
Leslie Luce
Leslie Luce
17:37 20 Oct 21
The professionalism and want to help attitude of this office was present from the moment I contacted them. The follow... up and follow through as well as their willingness to find a way to schedule my dad was above and beyond. We visited two offices in the same day with the same experience. I am appreciative of this—we spend a lot of time with doctors and this was top notch start to finish.read more
robert Parker
robert Parker
16:38 16 Apr 21
I love going to this office. The staff is friendly and helpful. The doctor is great. I am getting the best... neurological tests and treatment I have ever had. The only reason I did not give them a 5 star rating is because it is impossible to reach a live person at the office to reschedule appointments. Every time I have tried to get through to the office it says all people are busy and I am sent to a voicemail. If they could get their phone answering fixed, I would give them a strong 5 stars.read more
MaryAnn Hornbaker
MaryAnn Hornbaker
00:26 25 Feb 21
Dr. Harney is an excellent Dr. I found him friendly , personable and thorough. I evidently am an unusual case. ... Therefore he spent a Hugh amount of time educating me. He even gave me literature to further explain my condition and how to follow up. This is something you rarely get from your doctors. So I am more than please with my doctor and his staff.read more
Roger Arguello
Roger Arguello
03:05 29 Jan 21
Always courteous, professional. The staff is very friendly and always work with you to find the best appointment time.... The care team has been great. Always taking the time to listen to your concerns and to find the best treatment.read more
Margaret Rowland
Margaret Rowland
01:12 27 Jan 21
I have been a patient at Lone Star Neurology for several years. Now both my adult daughters also are patients there. I... love Jodie. She is always so prompt whether it is a teleamed call are a visit in the office. She takes the time to explain everything to me and answers all my questions. I am so blessed to have Jodie as my doctor.read more
Susan Miller
Susan Miller
03:01 13 Jan 21
My husband had an accident 5 years ago and Lone Star Neurology has been such a blessing to us with my husbands care.... Jodie Moore is his provider and she is amazing! Jodie is very knowledgeable, caring, and thorough. She takes her time with you, making sure your needs are met and she is happy to answer any questions you may have. Lone Star Neurology’s patients are very lucky to have Jodie providing their care. Thank you Lone Star Neurology and especially Jodie for everything you have done for us. Jodie, you are the best!read more
Windalyn C
Windalyn C
01:32 09 Jan 21
Jodie is wonderful. She is very caring and knowledgeable. I have been to over a dozen neurologists, and none were able... to help me as much as they have here. Thanks!read more
Katie Kordel
Katie Kordel
00:40 09 Jan 21
Jodi Moore, nurse practitioner, is amazing. I have suffered from frequent, debilitating headaches for almost 20 years.... She has provided the best proactive and responsive care I have ever received. My quality of life has been greatly improved by her caring approach and tenacity in finding solutions.read more
Ellie Natsis
Ellie Natsis
15:41 07 Jan 21
I have had the best experience at this neurologist's office! For over a year I have been receiving iv treatments here... each month and my nurse, Bobbie is beyond wonderful!! She's so attentive, knowledgeable, caring, and detail oriented. She makes an otherwise uncomfortable experience much more pleasant and definitely puts me at ease! She also helps me with my insurance,ordering this specialty medication and dealing with the ordering process which is no easy feat.Needless to say, she goes above a beyond in every way and I'm so grateful to this office and to Bobbie for all they do for me!read more
Matt Morris
Matt Morris
15:39 07 Jan 21
Let me start by saying that I have been coming here for years. Due to my autoimmune disease, I am in this office... once every three weeks for multiple hours at a time. The office is very clean and the staff very friendly. My only complaint would be there communication via phone. They aren't the best at responding if you leave a voicemail and expect a call back. I understand that this is prob just due to the sheer number of alls they receive daily. What I can say I like the best about the office are the people. Bobby who handles my infusions is great. I never have any issues with her setting up my infusions. She is very quick to reply to messages sent via text and if she were to leave then my whole opinion of the office may change. I also enjoy people like Matt, Lauren, and Jodi. I appreciate all that they do for me and without this team I'm not sure I would be as happy as I am to visit the office as frequently as I have to. Please ensure that these folks are recognized as they are what makes my visit to this office so tolerable :).read more
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