Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common cause of pain in the arms and hands. It involves the compression of a nerve which, if left untreated, can lead to severe problems - including in the area of motor function - as well as pain.
Here you will find further information and selected doctors for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is the compression of the median nerve, which is located in the wrist area. This nerve runs from the shoulder into the upper arm and forearm.
The carpal tunnel is located on the inside of the wrist. The median nerve as well as various ligaments and tendons run through this tunnel.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is relatively common and often occurs on both sides. Children are rarely affected, but it occurs more frequently in people between the ages of 40 and 70. Statistically, women are affected more often than men.
The causes of carpal tunnel syndrome can be varied. Injuries near the wrist are often the cause.
Other risk factors are
Increased water retention in the joints and a thickening of the ligament structure can also promote carpal tunnel syndrome. People who suffer from kidney failure and require dialysis are also at greater risk. Carpal tunnel syndrome often occurs on the side where the shunt is located.
Physical strain also plays a role. Certain occupational groups are affected more frequently. These include road construction workers who have to operate a jackhammer, for example. The risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome increases with regular heavy strain on the wrists.
Illustration of the anatomy involved in carpal tunnel syndrome © Henrie | AdobeStock
The symptoms also vary greatly. Unfortunately, many sufferers do not take the first signs seriously.
In the early stages, the hands may fall asleep, even at night. In addition, there is often a tingling sensation in the hands or arms. This sensation often starts in a single finger and then spreads further and further. The tingling can also be accompanied by symptoms such as pain and swelling. The ability to touch and the sense of sensation can also suffer.
If those affected ignore these signs, more severe damage is inevitable. In extreme cases, paralysis may even occur.
In advanced stages, muscle wasting also occurs. The thumb is particularly affected as it is directly connected to the damaged nerve. The muscle loss leads to the affected person being severely restricted, as their grip strength can suffer.
In principle, however, very different symptoms can occur. The damage on the other side of the body may also only become apparent much later.
Occasionally, the symptoms can improve on their own. However, the basic problem, the constriction of the nerve, still exists.
The doctor treating you will carry out a carpal tunnel syndrome test to get a more accurate picture of the symptoms.
The following symptoms can occur with carpal tunnel syndrome:
Treatment depends on the stage of the carpal tunnel syndrome. If the symptoms are not yet too advanced, conservative treatment is generally used.
The treatment focuses on treating the underlying disease. For example, if diabetes is the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, the diabetes must be treated.
At the same time, measures such as immobilization of the affected arm or medication are used to relieve the acute pain.
If excessive strain is the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, the arm must be protected. This allows nerves and other structures to recover. At the same time, anti-inflammatory medication or cortisone injections can provide relief.
Carpal tunnel surgery is recommended in advanced stages or if the symptoms are severe. The operation can be either open or arthroscopic. The advantage of minimally invasive treatment is that the patient can move their hand earlier.
During surgery, the carpal ligament, which lies over the bone groove on the wrist, is usually cut. The surgeon also removes tissue that can constrict the nerve. This reduces the pressure on the nerve.
After the operation, the patient must rest the arm for several weeks. Rest from sport or work depends on the healing process and the strain to which the hand is exposed in professional or sporting life.
In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome, it is advisable to consult a specialist. An expert in the field of hand surgery is the first port of call here. However, as nerves are also involved in carpal tunnel syndrome, a specialist in neurosurgery is also required.
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