Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a painful condition wherein the median nerve servicing the hand and the fingers are compressed in the region of the carpal tunnel or canal. This canal within the wrist is very small in size and is formed by the wrist bones and the transverse carpal ligament.
If you have been noticing some tingling and numbness of the palm and fingers, you must consult your doctor as these signs are representative of the early signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. If the condition is caught early, your doctor may only suggest rest. Modifying one's activities may be suggested as to prevent worsening the condition. In other cases you may need to put on a wrist brace or splint overnight. This helps to keep the wrist in an unbent position when one is asleep.
The doctor will also determine if there is a need for more aggressive treatment such as cortisone injection, taking fluid tablets or the need for anti-inflammatory tablets. There is also the physiotherapist, who is trained to use exercises to treat physical impairments, or the occupational therapist, who is trained to evaluate people with physical impairments and helping them build skills to improve their health and well-being.
Cortisone injections into the carpal tunnel can help reduce the inflammation and minimize pain. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are also used if the numbness and pain in the wrist and hand continue. Vitamin B6 has also been reported to decrease the symptoms, although it is not known how this medication works. The doctor can also prescribed fluid tablets that help prevent unnecessary fluid retention in the body, this helps when there is swelling in the wrist. Acupuncture and chiropractic care have also helped some patients but their effectiveness remains unproved. The exception is yoga, which has been shown to reduce pain and improve grip strength among patients.
Surgical intervention is considered for patients who have suffered carpal tunnel symptoms for a prolonged period of time. When the condition gradually deteriorates and the conservative measures and medications are not giving relief or any indications that the condition is being managed successfully or that cure is at hand.
Before undergoing surgery, one must discuss with the doctor a range of issues like whether or not the procedure is done under local or general anesthetic. Any medications that the patient is on, herbs, vitamin or mineral supplements. Some of these preparations may interfere with surgical medications.
No comments:
Post a Comment