The Median Nerve also controls some of the movement of the thumb and fingers. \u00a0This important nerve passes through the Carpal Tunnel, which is a napkin ring-like space covered by the Transverse Carpal Ligament. \u00a0Within this space, along with the Median Nerve, are the flexor tendons that allow bending of the fingers. \u00a0Carpal Tunnel Syndrome arises when these flexor tendons become thickened and occupy too much space in the Carpal Tunnel, leading to compression on the Median Nerve.<\/p>\n
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome<\/h2>\n![\"Carpal](\"https:\/\/handsurgeonsnyc.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2012\/12\/Macrame.jpg\")
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<\/h2>\nNumbness and\/or tingling in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and possibly the ring and little fingers are the hallmarks of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. \u00a0Pain may also be present sometimes. \u00a0In mild cases the numbness\/tingling is intermittent, but as the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome becomes more severe the symptoms become constant. \u00a0Severe Carpal Tunnel Syndrome also leads to weakness of the hand due to the loss of hand muscle strength, especially the thumb. \u00a0Difficulty sleeping at night because of the discomfort also generally indicates a more advanced condition.<\/p>\n
Common Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome<\/h2>\n
Despite popular belief, repetitive motions like typing do not cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome according to reliable research studies on this topic. \u00a0Developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is largely due to a genetic predisposition, which becomes symptomatic at any time from adolescence to old age, but is most common in perimenopausal or pregnant women. \u00a0Men also suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. \u00a0Certain medical conditions, specifically Diabetes and Hypothyroidism, are known to be associated with developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.<\/p>\n
Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome<\/h2>\n
Speaking with you to understand the types of symptoms you experience and when is of the utmost important. \u00a0A careful physical exam to evaluate the Median Nerve and other nerves of the arm and hand is also essential. \u00a0An x-ray can help evaluate for possible abnormalities of the wrist joint that can contribute to the problem. \u00a0A Nerve Conduction Study may be obtained to confirm the diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and helps to assess the severity.<\/p>\n
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome<\/h2>\n
Mild cases can be treated with splinting, occupational therapy, anti-inflammatory medication, and steroid injections. \u00a0Some mild cases may resolve, others remain stable and persist, while many progress to more advanced Median Nerve compression. \u00a0Severe or unresponsive cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may benefit from surgery. \u00a0The goal of surgery is to open the Carpal Tunnel so the Median Nerve has more room and is no longer compressed. \u00a0In these cases, surgery can prevent the worsening of the condition and allows for recovery of the Median Nerve. \u00a0The procedure may be performed endoscopically or open.<\/p>\n