Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive disorder that usually starts with an onset of vague aches in the wrist area. The aches can turn into pain that radiates into the hands and forearms. To receive exceptional assistance from your local Houston pain treatment clinic, please call (713) 480-6254 today!
Info on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In the wrists, there are nerves and tendons. Repetitive movements like writing, typing, and hammering can cause these tendons to swell and become inflamed with pain. Other factors that cause this common Houston injury are carpal tunnel syndrome, which is a pinched nerve; including pre-existing health issues like rheumatoid arthritis, or the structure of the wrist. A wrist bone that was previously broken or dislocated can eventually develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow corridor located at the wrist on the palm side. This passageway protects the nerves in your hand. Any compression of these nerves produces a tingling, numbness, pain, and hand weakness. Statistics show that while both men and women suffer from the common injury of carpal tunnel syndrome, women are more likely than men to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome. This is probably due to the fact that their carpal tunnels are much smaller.
Tips on Dealing with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
There are various methods of dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome. To receive experienced medical assistance, please contact Americana Injury for expert advice today!
Some tips for combating the pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome include doing some gentle hand exercises as soon as the numbness begins in the wrist area. For approximately two minutes, twirl your hands in a circular motion to restore circulation to the muscles in the wrist. Also, keep your hands warm. If necessary, wear fingerless gloves.
You may also find it helpful to take frequent breaks from repetitive wrist movements by periodically stretching and bending your hands, or alternate tasks while working if possible, and taking an anti-inflammatory over-the-counter drug like ibuprofen.
Sometimes it is advised to use a splint to keep your wrist straight and take the pressure off the nerve at night while sleeping.
When experiencing swelling, using an ice pack can help to bring down the swelling. Leave the ice on for about twenty minutes. Repeat if necessary every hour.
Other risk factors that can cause carpal tunnel syndrome are changes in the balance of body fluids from conditions like pregnancy, menopause, and thyroid and kidney disorders. Fluid retention increases pressure thereby causing pain.
Nerve damage resulting from illnesses like diabetes, alcoholism, or any disease that produces inflammation can increase symptoms of pain, numbness, and weakness associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Chronic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
For chronic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, it is very important to get expert assistance by contacting the professionals at Americana Injury.
Some doctors may prescribe medications or give shots to relieve pain or may recommend surgery; however, finding alternatives to a surgical solution may be more beneficial for your long-term health if at all possible.
Some alternative procedures to help relieve carpal tunnel syndrome are ultrasound therapy and yoga. Ultrasound therapy raises the temperature of the carpal tunnel which will promote healing. Yoga stretches the carpal tunnel and strengthens the area thereby reducing pain.
To find out which solution best meets your individual need, please call (713) 480-6254 today!