Carpal Tunnel Syndrome FAQ
What are the common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Common symptoms include numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, or ring fingers, pain in the wrist or hand, and difficulty gripping objects.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is commonly caused by repetitive hand movements, hand and wrist position, heredity, and health conditions like diabetes or arthritis.
How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, electrophysiological tests, and in some cases, imaging studies such as an ultrasound or MRI.
What are the treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Treatment may include wrist splinting, corticosteroid injections, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or, in severe cases, surgery.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome be prevented?
Preventive measures include taking regular breaks to rest the hands, avoiding repetitive hand movements, and maintaining a neutral wrist position.
Is carpal tunnel syndrome more common in certain professions?
Yes, it is more common in professions that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as manufacturing, assembly line work, and computer use.
Are there exercises that can help with carpal tunnel syndrome?
Yes, exercises focused on stretching and strengthening the wrist and hand muscles can provide relief for some individuals.
What are the risks of leaving carpal tunnel syndrome untreated?
Untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage, muscle wasting, and a decrease in grip strength.
Is carpal tunnel syndrome more common in women than in men?
Yes, women are three times more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome than men.
What are the non-surgical options for treating carpal tunnel syndrome?
Non-surgical options may include wearing wrist splints, modifying hand activities, and using over-the-counter pain medications.
How long does it take to recover from carpal tunnel release surgery?
Recovery time varies, but many people can resume light activities after a few weeks and return to normal activities within a few months.
Why does carpal tunnel syndrome often worsen at night?
The symptoms may worsen at night due to the position of the hand during sleep or increased fluid retention in the wrist and hand while lying down.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome occur in both hands at the same time?
Yes, it is possible to develop carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands simultaneously.
What are the potential complications of carpal tunnel syndrome surgery?
Complications are rare, but they can include infection, nerve damage, and incomplete relief of symptoms.
Is carpal tunnel syndrome a progressive condition?
Without treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms can worsen over time, leading to persistent discomfort and loss of hand function.
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Information provided by Maryam Abdullahi-Mahdi. Reviewed by Mr. Matthew Liew