Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) or carpal tunnel syndrome is a neuropathic condition that causes a tingling sensation in the hands.

Definition

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) or carpal tunnel syndrome is a neuropathic condition that causes a tingling sensation in the hands. Usually, this syndrome attacks the wrist and fingers.

This health disorder usually occurs in middle age. Women suffer from this disease more than men. Usually more often attack on the dominant hand.

In certain circumstances, such as pregnancy, the prevalence increases slightly.

Symptoms

Symptoms that are generally experienced by sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) involve a tingling sensation and pain in the fingers. Generally attacks the outer 3 fingers (little finger, ring finger, middle finger). Apart from that, there may also be a feeling of heat and burning from the thumb to the middle finger.

Sometimes compression of the entire nerve can cause the entire wrist to feel tingling. Carpal tunnel syndrome often occurs due to compression of the nerves in the wrist due to swelling.

Complications

Prolonged carpal tunnel syndrome can result in permanent damage to the nerves. It usually begins with persistent symptoms of numbness, wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb, and difficulty moving the thumb

Diagnosis

To determine the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the doctor can perform a physical examination of the hands and wrists. In addition, the doctor may also ask a number of questions related to the symptoms you are experiencing through a series of medical interviews.

Here are some tests that can be used to determine the diagnosis:

  • Physical test
  • Blood test
  • Electromyography
  • Nerve conduction studies
  • Shinar X

Treatment

To treat carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), the first action that can be taken is to rest the affected hand (immobilize). Then you can use a splint (a tool that is often attached to the hands of people with CTS).

Painkillers can also be given if the pain is very disturbing. Another way is to give an injection of local anesthetic (anesthesia).

In severe conditions, surgery can be performed. However, this is only done if the treatment fails and the muscles are heavy/shrink).
You can also take a multivitamin B complex to reduce the complaints you feel. If the symptoms do not subside, immediately consult a neurologist for a thorough examination.

Prevention:

Avoid repetitive activities using the same hand. Especially if your movements are not ergonomic. One of the risk factors for CTS is repetitive hand movements such as when gripping/driving, typing, and static and non-ergonomic work postures.

Reason

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is generally caused by pressure on the swollen median nerve. Swelling, in turn, can be caused by a number of reasons, such as:

  • Hypothyroidism
  • Diabetes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Pregnancy
  • Repeatedly bending the wrist downwards
  • Make repetitive movements with the wrist
  • Forced hand movements
  • Work long hours in the same position
  • Working for hours in poor posture
  • Hand vibration

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