Carpal Tunnel: A Modern-Day Epidemic

by Kevin Smith Author

What Is Carpal Tunnel?

CTS, or Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, affects the wrist and is caused by compressing the median nerve. This compression causes numbness, tingling, and occasional pain in parts of the hand. Carpal Tunnel is very common and can be the result of repetitive movements like computer use. Any inflammation or swelling in or near the tunnel can cause compression of the median nerve, which then leads to frail or poorly functioning hand muscles.

The Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Often, CTS is the result of repetitive work activities and movements in the hands and wrists. Apart from office workers, many hairstylists, assembly line workers, and cashiers also experience the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Other causes can include osteoarthritis and other problems with the wrist bones, infections within the tunnel that cause inflammation, diseases which cause fluid build-up, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and pregnancy, which causes hormonal changes that may increase fluid retention.

Some people are also born with certain conditions that put them at risk for CTS. For example, the average tunnel is already quite a small area. Those born with smaller than average tunnels can feel pain from even small amounts of swelling and pressure. The median nerve in our hands can only tolerate small amounts of pressure for short periods of time. Over time, the increased pressure causes the hand to “fall asleep”. The longer Carpal Tunnel Syndrome exists in a body, the more severe symptoms become. Luckily there are many professionals who offer Carpal Tunnel treatment in Atlanta.

How to Prevent Worsening Carpal Tunnel

For some, the pain and symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome might be so severe that surgery is the only recommended option. For others seeking Carpal Tunnel treatment in Atlanta, there are home remedies and exercises that can reduce pain and increase functionality in the hands. If your job or your favorite hobby puts a regular strain on your wrists and your hands, you should start paying attention to how often you feel tingling and numbness in your fingers. There is a lot that can be done to prevent CTS from getting worse. First and foremost, try a softer approach in your day-to-day tasks. In other words, don’t grip your tools so tightly and don’t hit your keyboard with as much force. Use only as much force as necessary to get your job done. As you go through the day, pay attention to how tense your hands are and be careful not to put too much pressure on them. You should step away from your desk for 10-15 minutes every hour to give your hands a rest. You should also stretch your hands and fingers often. When you are on a break, make a fist and then stretch out each finger. Repeat this process until your hand feels relaxed. Finally, you should consult your doctor if the tingling and numbness persist.