Carpal Tunnel Disorder Carpal Tunnel Syndrome refers to a disorder associated with nerves located within the wrist. The carpal tunnel is an anatomical pathway found on the palm of the wrist. The main function of this tunnel is to form a protective sheath around ligaments, tendons and nerves. When the nerves in this pathway undergo compression or are damaged, sensation of pain and numbness emanate from this area. In some cases, the pain becomes significant leading to disability which is characteristic of carpal tunnel syndrome. The signs and symptoms that accompany Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include numbness of the fingers and hands, pain in the wrist extending to the arms and shoulders and a general sensation of weakness in the hands. The symptoms may be mild initially,but may progress at a faster rate depending on the degree of compression of the median nerve. There are some inborn qualities that predispose and individual to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and they include a narrow wrist. However, in majority of the cases, it is a combination of all possible risk factors which also include repetitive motion stress which may be accompanied by wrist injuries which contributes to this condition. The treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome usually requires palliative treatment such as a cold compress, analgesics to relieve pain and removal of the repetitive stress conditions. In some cases where the above treatments do no alleviate pain, surgery may be necessary. The goals of surgical intervention is to reduce the pressure on the nerve which causes the pain. This is accomplished by severing the ligament that puts pressure on the median nerve.
Posted on: Thu, 22 Aug 2013 11:05:12 +0000