“What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?”
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel (a narrow passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand) houses the median nerve and tendons. Sometimes, thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling narrows the tunnel and causes the median nerve to be compressed, causing a progressive pain to the hand, wrist and fingers. This can affect in one or both hands.
“Signs and Symptoms”
- Burning, tingling, and/or itching numbness in the palm of the hand to the fingers especially in the thumb, index and middle finger
- Decreased grip strength
- Difficulty clenching fist
- In the chronic stage, it is possible to be unable to feel/differentiate hot and cold with the palm
“How Can We Help?”
We will firstly examine the issue and provide further assistance and guidance to give you our best advices and treatments for you.
Treatments include pain relief modalities such as heat therapy, stretching and braces if the condition is severe.
Most of the time, circumstances like this just require a physiotherapist for assured recovery. However, if it is one of the rarer cases where signs and symptoms are not improving and unresolved, you may be referred back to the doctors for consultation and further investigation.