Carpal tunnel pain can greatly affect your ability to complete everyday tasks like typing, writing, or even eating. For office workers, gamers, or manual laborers, ignoring the symptoms may worsen the condition over time.
But when should you consult a doctor for your carpal tunnel symptoms? This blog will explain the signs that should not be ignored, outline treatment options, and empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in your wrist, surrounded by hand bones and ligaments. The median nerve, which provides sensation and movement to parts of your hand, runs through this tunnel. When this nerve becomes compressed or irritated, it leads to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are:
- Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, or ring fingers
- Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects
- Pain in the wrist that can extend up the arm
- A “pins and needles” feeling, especially noticeable at night
If any of these symptoms interfere with your daily activities, it is important to consider whether additional attention from a medical professional is needed.
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by anything that inflames the tendons or compresses the median nerve. There are several risk factors associated with the condition:
- Repetitive Hand Movements: Tasks like typing, assembly line work, or gaming can strain the wrist.
- Medical Conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and diabetes increase the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause swelling in the wrist, putting pressure on the median nerve.
- Wrist Injuries: Fractures or sprains can narrow the carpal tunnel or cause damage to nearby tissues.
Symptoms That Warrant Attention from an Orthopedic Doctor
Mild carpal tunnel symptoms can sometimes be managed with rest and changes in routine. However, there are specific signs that suggest you should see an orthopedic doctor sooner rather than later.
Persistent Tingling or Numbness
If you often feel tingling or numbness in your hand or fingers, especially during the night, it could be a sign of a condition called carpal tunnel syndrome. The sensation might start as mild discomfort but can worsen over time if left untreated.
Loss of Strength
If you notice that your grip feels weaker or you are having trouble holding onto objects, it could mean that the condition is progressing. This weakness occurs because the nerve compression is interfering with the signals between your brain and your hand muscles, making it harder for your hand to function normally.
Pain That Does Not Improve
Wrist or hand pain that does not go away after resting or taking a break could indicate a more serious issue. While occasional discomfort might result from overuse, persistent pain often signals an underlying problem that needs medical attention, such as ongoing nerve damage.
Difficulty with Everyday Tasks
When tasks like typing, carrying groceries, or buttoning a shirt become difficult or even painful, it is a clear sign that your symptoms are affecting your daily life. This type of functional struggle often means that the condition has advanced to the point where professional treatment is necessary to prevent further damage.
How Doctors Diagnose Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
A trained orthopedic doctor will start by asking about your symptoms and lifestyle and conducting a physical examination. Here are some methods used for diagnosis.
Tinel’s Sign Test
A doctor taps gently on your wrist to see if it produces tingling in your fingers.
Nerve Conduction Study
This measures how well electrical signals travel through the median nerve.
Electromyography (EMG)
This checks for any nerve or muscle damage by inserting thin electrodes into your muscles.
Ultrasound or MRI
These imaging tests can help visualize the structures inside the wrist, confirming nerve compression.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The type of treatment depends on how severe your carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms are. Doctors often recommend starting with conservative approaches and progressing to more advanced interventions if necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Common non-surgical treatments for carpal tunnel pain are:
Wrist Splints
Wearing a brace or splint at night reduces nerve pressure by keeping your wrist in a neutral position.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter options like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can reduce swelling and ease carpal tunnel pain.
Steroid Injections
These shots can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the nerve.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Changing workstation ergonomics or taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks can help prevent further irritation.
Surgical Treatments
If non-surgical methods do not work or symptoms are severe, your orthopedic doctor may recommend surgery. The goal of carpal tunnel surgery is to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting a ligament that constricts the tunnel. This procedure is called a carpal tunnel release and typically has a high success rate.
Carpal Tunnel Treatment in North Dakota
If you believe that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome, it is essential to get the right care promptly. Ignoring symptoms can lead to permanent nerve damage and long-term loss of function.
At The Bone & Joint Center, our experienced orthopedic specialists are here to help you find relief and restore your quality of life. We offer cutting-edge diagnostic tests and treatments for a comprehensive range of orthopedic issues, including carpal tunnel syndrome, tailored to your needs.
Call us today at (701) 946-7400/(866) 900-8650 or submit an appointment request form to book an appointment with our specialist.
Sources:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603
