Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful condition that affects many. In some cases, the pain and numbness associated with the syndrome can have devastating consequences. It is not uncommon for people diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel to miss an excessive amount of work or to live a decreased quality of life because of the condition. Surgery and lengthy periods of physical therapy are also very common. For others, though, conquering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a reality, and it can be for you too if you recognize the condition early and take the proper steps to correct it.
Signs Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The first signs of Carpal Tunnel include tingling and numbness in the hands at night or after the wrists have been in a bent down position. It is during this time that the most progress can be made by non-surgical means to correct the condition and alleviate the discomfort associated with it. Unfortunately, these first signs of trouble are often overlooked.
If caught early, the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel are often mild and only require the wearing of a brace or splint at night. The splint allows the tissues and the membranes to rest and shrink which relieves pressure on the median nerve. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may also be prescribed during this time to help shrink tissue. In more advanced cases, an injection of cortisone can be administered to help shrink the swollen tissue.
Conquering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Treatment
In some cases, conquering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can only be attained through surgery. Many surgeries to correct the condition are performed on an outpatient basis and have short recovery times. Surgical procedures can include any one or more of the following:
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Severing the ligament that shapes the top of the carpal tunnel to alleviate stress on the median nerve.
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The removal of the flexor tenosynovium.
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The removal of the crushed median nerve trunk which is responsible for feelings of numbness.
Recovery from surgery normally takes about 10 days during which time exercises to increase strength and flexibility are introduced. It is often recommended that these exercises remain a part of your daily routine to avoid a repeat occurrence of Carpal Tunnel symptoms. These exercises may also be recommended by your doctor at the first sign of the condition.
Exercises For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Some of the most common exercises to alleviate Carpal Tunnel symptoms include holding your arms straight out in front of you with your fingers straight up, palms vertical for a period of five seconds before relaxing; making a fist with both hands and bending the fists down at the wrists for a period of five seconds before relaxing; and allowing the hands to hang loosely at your sides for a period of ten seconds. These exercises should be performed before beginning work and at regular intervals throughout the work day. Your doctor may also custom create a set of exercises to match your exact needs.
You do not have to live with pain; conquering Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is possible. Be sure to contact your physician at the first signs of discomfort.
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