Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is an affliction where the median nerve, running from the forearm to the palm, becomes squeezed or compressed at the wrist. This nerve is the controller for sensations on the palm side of the fingers and thumb, and some of the impulses that allow the small muscles of the hand to move. The syndrome is names for the carpal tunnel, the narrow passageway of bones and ligaments at the heel of the hand that is the home for the median nerve and tendons. The thickening of irritated tendons, and other swelling in this area, push on the median nerve, and are what cause the pain, numbness, and weakness that spell out carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s the best known of all of the entrapment neuropathies, which are where the body’s peripheral nerves are traumatized, swollen or compressed.
You know that you may have carpal tunnel when you start to see frequent burning, tingling, or itching numbness in the palm of the hand and the fingers, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers. Other complaints include loss of feeling/responsiveness in the fingers, even without swelling apparent in the extremity. A person with carpal tunnel syndrome may awaken feeling the need to constantly “shake out” their hands, a constant stiffness that persists throughout the day. Decreased grip strength follows, making it difficult to hold things.
If you feel these symptoms coming on, please contact Neuropax Clinic to set up an appointment. Find more information on carpal tunnel syndrome, neuropathy pain, and any other peripheral nerve issues at www.neuropaxclinic.com and call us at 314-434-7784 to setup an appointment.
