MAIN Health Pain Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition where the median nerve is compressed where it passes through the wrist, which pinches the nerve and causes a number of different symptoms such as burning, tingling, numbness, and general weakness in the effected area.

Although carpal tunnel syndrome has been known about since at least the early 20th century, it wasn't until the sharp rise in the number of office workers in the late 20th century that the condition became generally known to the public.

But despite the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome among office workers, the majority of cases have no known cause, although scientists believe that genetic disposition is an important influence. In fact, there is actually little or no data that proves a definitive link between repetitive work related activities and carpal tunnel syndrome. It is certainly true that repetitive hand movements are associated with wrist pain in some way, but whether those movements are the direct cause of the pain remains to be seen. Another complication is that pain localized to the area of the wrist is often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Treating carpal tunnel syndrome is often an ongoing affair, as almost all treatments simply relieve the symptoms rather than address the underlying condition. Wrist braces to limit mobility are often used to allow the wrist to heal, and steroid injections can offer short term relief. Physical therapy may also help, and changing the work environment to better accommodate the wrist can also offer a great deal of relief. Anti-inflammatory medication can also be of great benefit, however in most severe cases, the only way to really treat carpal tunnel syndrome is surgery.

Recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome is usually fairly good, as long as some measure is taken to address the condition in a relatively short amount of time. If the condition is left untreated, recovery may never be full and nerve damage in some form can become permanent.

More about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome pain treatment around the Web:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Information Page - Extensive fact sheet on the syndrome including a definition, prognosis and treatment, related organizations and contact info, suggested reading and related resources.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pain in Your Hands and Wrists - Informative, illustration guide to the condition with facts on symptoms and treatment including home care, exercises and ergonomic tips.

also see in Pain -> Alternative pain therapies

Muscle pain | Neck pain | Sciatic nerve damage

also see in Office Life -> Desk Exercises