8 FAITH REGIONAL Health Services It’s all in the wrist CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME Although your wrists are a small part of your body, they can be a big pain if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel is a condition that can lead to pain, numbness and tingling in the hands and forearms. What is carpal tunnel syndrome? The carpal tunnel is a passage that allows nerves and tendons to run through the wrist. When it narrows, it puts pressure on the median nerve, one of the main nerves in your hand. This nerve starts in the neck and travels through your arms and down to your fingers. Usually, carpal tunnel is the result of a combination of risk factors, which include: • Heredity. • Injury to the wrist. • Repetitive hand motion. • Pregnancy. What are the symptoms? Signs of carpal tunnel can be tricky to pick up on because they come on gradually. They might include: • Pain or tingling that moves up your forearm. • Pain, burning or numbness in the fingers. • Pain that is worse at night, interrupting sleep. • Dropping objects because of hand weakness or numbness. How is it treated? If you notice any symptoms, it’s time to talk to a hand, wrist and elbow specialist. During an evaluation, your hands and wrists are examined and tested. Sometimes lab tests, such as an x-ray or ultrasound, may be needed. If you’re diagnosed with carpal tunnel, several treatment options are available. Carpal tunnel is a common condition that can significantly impact your daily life, causing pain, numbness and weakness in the hand. For those who haven’t found relief with nonsurgical treatments, carpal tunnel release surgery is an effective option to relieve symptoms.” —Jesse Meaike, MD, Hand, Wrist, and Elbow and Reconstructive Surgeon
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