What You Have to Know About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

You might have noticed many people searching for therapy services in Williamsburg to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Aren’t you curious about what carpal tunnel syndrome, also known as CTS, really is? Here is a general overview of this condition.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the hands extending to the arms. It usually happens when there is a swelling inside the carpal tunnel, a passage where the median nerve passes through.

The Symptoms

The most common symptoms of CTS are numbness, tingling sensation, and pain which may occur on all fingers especially the pinky finger. When the condition is severe, the symptoms may extend to the hands, forearms, and even the shoulders.

These symptoms develop gradually. Typically, the patient experiences them during the night until waking up the next morning. When left untreated, CTS may cause a weakened grip, making it difficult to grasp objects. Over time, the thumb and fingers will get numb, unable to determine whether something is cold or hot.

The Causes and Risk Factors

The most common causes and risk factors are:

1. Repetitive flexing of the wrist
2. Obesity
3. Pregnancy
4. Those with dislocated or injured wrists
5. Those with small carpal tunnels
6. Certain conditions, especially those that damage the nerves, such as diabetes, kidney failure, and thyroid disorders, among others

The Treatment Options

CTS may go away in some instances, such as those who got it due to pregnancy. For other circumstances, a variety of treatment options are available.

1. You can take advantage of occupational therapy in Brooklyn, New York. Engaging this therapy enables the patient to learn different ways on how to perform repetitive actions.

2. The doctor may prescribe certain medications most notably those that help minimize inflammation of the median nerve.

3. Physical therapy in Far Rockway is also available as a treatment option.

4. In severe cases where symptoms persist for at least six months and other treatments have been ineffective, the doctor may recommend surgery. The procedure does not require the patient to stay in a hospital overnight.

Prevention Tips

Minimizing the chances of developing carpal tunnel syndrome is possible through the following tips:

1. Use the right amount of force when performing actions with your hands, such as typing softly, not hardly or gripping firmly, not too tightly.

2. Give your hands plenty of rest, especially when you have exerted a lot of force using them.

3. Perform hand stretching exercises regularly.

4. Consult a doctor immediately when you feel symptoms of CTS.

Road to Recovery Physical and Occupational Therapy provides specialized services to help manage and treat CTS and other conditions. We offer personalized physical therapy in Brooklyn, New York to address your specific needs.