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Carpal
Tunnel Syndrome
What is Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome (CTS) results from increased pressure on the
median nerve located in the anatomic passageway of the wrist
known as the carpal tunnel. CTS is considered a repetitive motion
disorder seen most often in the working population, especially
in those individuals using computer keyboards.
Compression
of the median nerve by the transverse carpal ligament sets into
motion a progressively crippling disorder which eventually results
in wrist pain, numbness and tingling in the hand, pain consisting
of a feeling of "pins and needless", weakness of grip
and problems with hand and finger coordination.
CTS is seen
more often in women than men, by a ratio of 3 to 1, usually between
the ages of 30 and 50 years. The Bureau of Labor statistics,
U.S. Department of Labor states that CTS sufferers miss more
days from work than any other work related condition. On the
average, 30 days absence per worker. The current statistics translate
to a growing epidemic which is costing business billions of dollars
a year in lost worker days and medical costs.
The symptoms
of CTS are caused by decreased conductivity of the median nerve
which is due to increased mechanical pressure within the carpal
tunnel. Interference in nutritional blood supply is also a contributive
factor. Treatment should focus on reduction of inflammation,
improvement in nerve conductivity and increased circulation to
facilitate rapid healing. Historically, only a few treatment
options have been available to CTS patients, strong oral medication
and injections, wrist splints and surgery.
What are the symptoms
of CTS?
Compression
of the nerve causes a reduction in the conductivity of the
median nerve. This leads to wrist pain, numbness and tingling
in the hand, pain consisting of a feeling of "pins and needles",
weakness of grip, and problems with hand and finger coordination.
The pain sensations may radiate to the forearm and shoulder.
Symptoms may be occasional or constant. The tingling is often
referred to as a feeling similar to the "pins and needles"
sensation associated with a limb "falling asleep".
CTS pain can range from mild numbness and faint tingling to excruciating
pain accompanied by a crippling atrophy of the muscles of the
thumb.
Who suffers from CTS?
Carpal Tunnel
Syndrome is found most often in those who perform
repetitive motions with their hands, such as computer operators,
production line workers, drivers, bookkeepers and grocery store
checkers. It is especially commonplace among users of word processors,
or the computer keyboard.
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