CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Carpal tunnel syndrome is an uncomfortable hand condition that occurs when the median nerve is under immense strain. As a result, the hand becomes numb or starts to tingle. The median nerve is a nerve that extends down the arm to the wrist via the carpal tunnel and controls the movement of all the fingers, except the tiny pinky finger.

Symptoms

• Itchiness on the palm of the hand
• Weak hands and poor grip
• Shock-like sensations in the fingers
• A tingling feeling that moves up the arm

What's also quite common is the fingers may &fall asleep&, especially at night. This has much to do with how a person holds their hand. Later the following day, a numb sensation will shoot up through the arm all the way to the shoulder.

Causes

Excessive strain on the median nerve causes carpal tunnel syndrome. The median nerve transmits signals to promote the movement of muscles at the thumb’s stem. Anything responsible for squeezing the nerve inside the carpal tunnel causes carpal tunnel syndrome. Something like a wrist fracture can restrict space in the carpal tunnel and irritate the nerve, which in the long run leads to inflammation, a condition known as rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is conservative therapy or surgical, depending on how severe the condition is. Taking the first step to treatment involves resting the hand, taking more breaks and applying cold compresses to relieve swelling.

However, the condition may have deteriorated beyond repair, making these non-invasive treatments ineffective. Apart from prescribing medication and applying splints, Dr Freed performs a procedure called carpal tunnel release surgery to minimise pressure on the median nerve. By means of ultrasound guidance, Dr Freed carries out less invasive endoscopic surgery. He uses a tiny instrument (endoscope) with a light and camera at its base to view the inside of the carpal tunnel. By cutting through a single or few ligaments, he reduces pressure on the nerve.