What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a widespread condition that occurs in the wrist and hand. It occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the wrist and hand. It happens when a nerve in the wrist, called the median nerve, gets compressed. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

The carpal tunnel is a small space inside the wrist through which the median nerve and tendons pass. When there is swelling or pressure at this point, the nerve is compressed, leading to pain and the inability to properly use the hand.

CTS is common for people who involve their hands doing the same repetitious movements constantly, like keyboard typing, pencil writing, or mouse clicking extensively. It has also been found to be caused by medical factors like diabetes, arthritis, or pregnancy.

Treatment consists of physiotherapy, exercises to the wrist, a brace on the wrist, and surgery if severe. Physiotherapy could improve symptoms and functioning of the hand.

Learn more about physiotherapy here.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome :

The symptoms of CTS often develop gradually and may include:

Numbness & Tingling: An experience of “pins and needles” in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
Pain in the Wrist & Hand: Pain that can radiate up the arm, often at night.
Weakness in the Hand: Trouble gripping things, causing constant dropping of things.
Stiffness in the Fingers: : An experience of tightness, particularly in the morning.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome :

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can occur as a result of a number of different factors, including ;

Repetitive Hand Movement – Tasks such as typing, writing, or using a computer mouse for a long time.
Medical Conditions – Diabetes, thyroid conditions, and arthritis can put one at greater risk.
Pregnancy – Hormonal fluctuation can result in swelling that puts pressure on the median nerve.
Wrist Injuries – Fractures, sprains, or any kind of wrist injury that takes away space in the carpal tunnel.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?

A medical practitioner can conduct the following tests to diagnose CTS

Tinel’s Test: A light tap on the wrist to determine if it causes tingling or pain.
Phalen’s Test: Sustaining the wrist in a flexed position for one minute to test for numbness.
Nerve Conduction Study: Checking how electrical impulses pass along the median nerve.
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome :

1. Physiotherapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Physiotherapy may be very beneficial in the control of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Physiotherapy will reduce pain, increase flexibility, and strengthen muscles of the wrist. To find out more on how physiotherapy can assist, you may read What is Physiotherapy? you can read What is Physiotherapy?

2. Home Remedies & Exercises

Wrist Stretching: Gradual stretching exercises which improves flexibility.
Cold Therapy: Use an ice pack to decrease swelling and pain.
Wrist Brace: Bracing, particularly at night, to maintain the wrist in a neutral position.
Reducing Strain: Breaking up repetitive hand movement by taking frequent breaks.

3. Medications

Some physicians may recommend various medications to reduce the pain and swelling associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Always see a physician to evaluate which would be best for your health and medical history.

4. Surgery (For Severe Cases)

When the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with daily activities, the median nerve can be decompressed surgically via a procedure called carpal tunnel release.Consult an Expert.

Seeking Professional Care

Managing wrist pain, numbness, or weakness that interferes with daily tasks might be facilitated by seeking professional advice. The physiotherapist can offer customized treatment strategies to improve hand function and avoid long-term issues. You may get more information about the various physiotherapy treatments available here.

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FAQ's on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Can physiotherapy help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome ?

Physical therapy does, in fact, help reduce discomfort, increase mobility, and prevent chronic wrist issues.

Where Can I Find Physiotherapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Kochi?

In Kochi, Kerala, receiving expert care can help reduce wrist pain and improve range of motion. Wellmax Physio is a premier physiotherapy center in Kochi that offers specialist treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.

Where to Get Physiotherapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Kochi?

There are multiplephysiotherapy clinics in Kochi that offer specialised care for the treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. At these clinics, patients are presented with treatment plans customised for their specific situation, which may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and pain management techniques to alleviate wrist pain and enhance hand function.

Wellmax Physio is the preferred choice for cutting-edge professional physiotherapy care, spearheaded by experienced physiotherapists devoted to ensuring optimal recovery rates for their patients

How long does physiotherapy take to relieve wrist pain?

Severity is a variable but in most cases patients see results in a few weeks.

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