Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Definition
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. This compression leads to pain, weakness, or numbness in the hand and wrist - usually in the thumb and 1st and 2nd fingers.
Mechanism of Injury
The cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is a result of a combination of factors that increase the pressure on the nerve and tendons in the carpal tunnel.
Factors include:
- Congenital predisposition
- Trauma
- Injury
- Fracture
- Sprain
- Weakness
- Repetitive movement
- Fluid Retention during Pregnancy
Symptoms
Symptoms start gradually and include:
- Frequent burning in palm, thumb, index and middle fingers
- Tingling, itching, numbness in palm, thumb, index and middle fingers
- Decreased grip strength
- Atrophy of thumb muscles
Symptoms often appear at night in one or both hands.
Symptoms progress to being present during the day.
Physical Therapy Intervention
Rec Center Physical Therapy can be the first line of defense for those suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome by offering treatments that introduce stretching and strengthening, modify worksite, modify repetitive activities, and fit patient with night splints. All are to build skills to improve their health and well being.