How to treat carpal tunnel syndrome

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Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when there is pressure applied on the median nerve in the wrist that causes numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand and severe pain. The median nerve along with several tendons throughout the forearm up to the hand and through the limited space in the carpal tunnel. It is important to note that the median nerve is responsible for controlling the movement and sensations felt in the thumb and the first three fingers.

Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome

• Repetitive movements of the hand, especially if the wrist is bent down.
• Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and hypothyroidism
• Pregnancy

Symptoms

• Tingling, numbness, weakness and pain can be felt in the fingers or hand
• Pain in the arm between the hand and elbow
• Pain in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and half of the ring finger

Treatment

• Allow the wrist to rest while performing activities that flex or bends the wrist. Take at least a 5-minute break every hour. Avoid performing activities that places additional stress on the wrist to prevent further damage and worsen the condition.
• Apply an ice pack on the affected area with wrist pain for at least 15-20 minutes at a time at 2 times every day. Avoid applying the pack directly on the skin to prevent frostbite and worsen the condition.
• Wear a splint while sleeping to relieve the tingling and numbness of the area throughout the night.
• Use the prescribed anti-inflammatory medication that contains ibuprofen to lessen the inflammation around the nerve and lessen the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Massage the affected wrist for at least 5-10 minutes at 2 times every day to lessen the pain. Dab on some ointment that has arnica on the fingers and gently massage the area from the hand down to the forearm and move the tips of the fingers across the palms and down into the wrist. Arnica is an herb that lessens aches, pain and inflammation.
• Seek the help of the physical therapist for some rehabilitation exercises to restore range of motion and stretching exercises.
• Elevate the hands and wrist above the level of the heart to prevent accumulation of fluid in the area.
• Quit smoking for proper blood circulation in the affected area especially the wrist and hands.
• Eat a well-balanced diet that includes nutritious foods and perform regular exercises to maintain strong and flexible muscles.

Tips

• Maintain the wrist in a neutral position
• Use the whole hand not only the fingers when holding objects.
• When typing, maintain the wrist in straight position and the hands slightly higher than the wrist. Relax the shoulders when the arms are at the sides of the body.
• If possible, switch hands frequently when performing repeated movements.

FACT CHECK

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carpal_tunnel_syndrome

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/carpal-tunnel/carpal-tunnel-syndrome#1