Learn more about the symptoms, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, a problem that affects more women
A carpal tunnel syndrome consists of compression of the median nerve in the wrist. It is a common compressive neuropathy of the upper extremity, with an incidence of 99 per 100,000 individuals. For this reason, symptoms such as tingling or pain in the hands appear, which can significantly disturb the daily life of those affected.
The problem is more common in women, although there is still no definitive answer as to why this happens. “Some authors suggest that people with radioulnar and palmodorsal carpal tunnel dimensions close to 1.0 are more likely to develop the condition. And women would have this tendency,” says Dr. Leonardo Kurebayashi, an orthopedic and hand surgeon.
What is really known is that the disease can appear for various reasons, including repetitive gestures, often during work.
Then, you see more information to your doctor about carpal tunnel syndrome:
Symptoms
Dr. Kurebayashi explains that certain symptoms should be a warning for carpal tunnel syndrome. “Patients who experience a numbness/tingling sensation in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and part of the ring finger, with exacerbation of symptoms during the rest (sleep) period, should be evaluated by a specialist as soon as possible,” he says.
Symptoms may worsen during grasping and fine pinching activities (for example, holding the steering wheel of a car or a cell phone). In more advanced cases, the person begins to have more difficulty moving, dropping objects or having difficulty putting on an earring or buttoning a shirt.
If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome may no longer be completely treatable, so it is important to see a professional as soon as possible.
Diagnosis
According to Dr. Kurebayashi, the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is clinical. In other words, it is based on the patient’s medical history and the thorough physical examination performed by the hand specialist.
However, there are tests that can help the surgeon rule out differential diagnoses and determine the patient’s prognosis, such as:
- Electroneuromyography (ENMG)
- Wrist ultrasound
- Radiography and computed tomography of the wrist
- MRI of the wrist
Treatment
There are two main types of treatment: conservative and surgical. “In the initial stages of the disease, treatment with orthotics, medications and rehabilitation (physiotherapy/occupational therapy) is possible, as well as lifestyle changes and control of associated diseases,” explains the doctor regarding the first of these.
When the diagnosis is late or this method does not work, surgery becomes necessary. In this case it can be open or endoscopic, depending on various factors related to the patient.
Prevention
To avoid carpal tunnel syndrome we recommend:
- Diagnosis and treatment of obesity, diabetes, hypothyroidism, arterial hypertension, musculoskeletal diseases and other local pathologies that can compress the median nerve
- Quit or reduce smoking
- Decrease alcohol consumption
- Practice regular physical activity
- Improve ergonomic conditions at work
- Periodic breaks for those who carry out repetitive activities with the upper limbs
Furthermore, food can also be an ally. Although there are no studies directly linking it to the disease, carpal tunnel syndrome may be related to other diseases that can improve with a good diet.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
