Carpal tunnel syndrome is
characterized by numbness or pain in the thumb and first two fingers. It
is a common problem for people who use their hands for extended periods
of time, such as workers in textile manufacturing, upholstering, assembly
line, and in clerical keyboard work.
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs
when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. Repeated bending and
extending the wrist may cause a swelling of the flexor tendons and sheaths,
which then press on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel.
Numbness may first be felt
in the index and second finger or in the thumb and is often noticed at
night. The condition can be minimized or prevented by being sure that the
wrist and hand are always in a straight line.
Carpal tunnel syndrome may
be treated through immobilization, medication, therapy, or surgery. Splinting
to prevent bending and extending of the wrist for a period of time is often
the only treatment required. Injections of anti-inflammatory drugs such
as steroids are sometimes useful either alone or in combination with other
treatment. If surgery is necessary, a simple operation to loosen the transverse
carpal ligament and open up the carpal tunnel often succeeds in relieving
the pressure on the median nerve.
