Get relief from carpal tunnel syndrome with these simple tips!

Have you ever heard of carpal tunnel syndrome? Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is actually one of the most common neuropathies, or nerve disorders, that can affect your wrists and hands. In fact, some sources estimate that over half of adults will suffer from CTS at some point in their lives! Fortunately, there are plenty of ways you can get relief from CTS symptoms and even prevent it in the first place. Check out these simple tips to get more information about how to relieve carpal tunnel syndrome so you can get back to your favorite activities faster!

Understand the condition

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through a narrow space in your wrist, known as the carpal tunnel. The symptoms usually start gradually, and they include numbness or tingling in your thumb, index finger and middle finger. These may wake you up at night if left untreated; affected individuals often can’t complete tasks or even perform basic hand movements like picking up a pen or holding a cup. In some cases, CTS also affects the ring finger and little finger. It’s important to understand that CTS isn’t an injury it’s a medical condition that can be treated effectively when caught early on. If you’re experiencing any of its symptoms, it’s time to get serious about treatment so you can prevent permanent damage to your hands. Here are five steps for doing just that

What is causing this problem?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on your median nerve, which runs through your wrist, forearm and hand. As you’ll see in a moment, there are two primary causes of pressure on that nerve: repetitive motion injuries and non-specific swelling (edema). Which one applies to you? If you work in an office all day long, chances are it’s probably a combination of both: repeated stress combined with swelling due to sitting at your desk. To address carpal tunnel syndrome effectively, it’s important to know what is causing it so you can come up with a plan that targets your specific problem.

How can I make it stop?

CTS can be a recurring problem, which is why it’s important to put a stop to it right away. RSI injuries are common in musicians, athletes, office workers and any other people who use their hands regularly for long periods of time. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for CTS yet  but there are plenty of things you can do to ease symptoms. Here are a few ways that might help

• Make sure your workstation has enough room so that your wrists don’t bend back toward your body as you type or use a mouse.
• If possible, try changing your position often so that one part of your body doesn’t bear all of your weight over an extended period of time.
• Avoid resting your wrists on hard surfaces like desks or tables while typing or using a mouse. Instead, prop them up on pillows or small cushions made specifically for wrist support (available at most drugstores).
• You can also wear comfortable wrist splints during activity if they offer support without limiting movement too much. These are generally only worn at night because they make it difficult to sleep on either side.

What if it doesn’t go away?

If you suffer from recurring bouts of CTS, it’s time to see a specialist. Your regular physician will likely refer you to an orthopedic surgeon or hand doctor for physical evaluation and possible surgery. Surgery can be painful and expensive, but it does offer long-lasting results in most cases. Make sure to discuss all your options before agreeing on a course of treatment that works for you.

What causes this condition?

There are many different factors that can contribute to CTS. Some of these include repetitive hand movements, genetics, and certain medical conditions. In addition, diabetes can be a contributing factor to CTS. When you have diabetes your body often doesn’t get enough oxygen which causes damage to small blood vessels and nerves within your hands and wrists. If left untreated it can cause damage which may result in pain (or loss of feeling) in your fingers or thumb.

How do I prevent it?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by swelling of your median nerve, which is located in your hand and wrist. This swelling puts pressure on your nerve and surrounding tissues, which makes it hard to use your hand comfortably. Sometimes CTS develops without an obvious cause; but often, it’s brought on by some kind of activity that requires repetitive motions like typing or writing, sewing or knitting or being exposed to cold weather. To prevent CTS, try to change how you perform tasks so you don’t have to repeat them for long periods of time. For example, if you work at a computer all day, take regular breaks and stretch your hands regularly. If you do develop symptoms like tingling or pain in your fingers and hands, see a doctor right away. He can help determine what’s causing your symptoms and recommend ways to ease them while they heal.

How do I know if I have it?

If your wrists and hands are hurting, it could mean you have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). You may feel tingling, numbness or weakness in your hands and wrist. Or you might notice swelling in your fingers or even difficulty closing your hand. It’s important to see a doctor if you think you have CTS because there are a number of other disorders that can cause similar symptoms. This way, your doctor will be able to give an accurate diagnosis for what is causing your symptoms.