by V. Kumar

Created on: April 30, 2008   Last Updated: July 31, 2008

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME is a disorder comprising of numbness, pain and weakness of hand and fingers, which results from compression of Median Nerve in the CARPEL TUNNEL- a space between wrist bones and a ligament over it called CARPAL LIGAMENT, through which Median nerve passes along with nine muscle tendons.

SYMPTOMS OF CARPEL TUNNEL SYNDROME

The main symptoms, i.e.. NUMBNESS, PAIN & WEKNESS -all result from the compression of the Median Nerve.

Median nerve provides nerve supply to two third portion of the hand on the side of the thumb and is the most important nerve for the hand and the fingers. In carpal tunnel syndrome, its compression initially leads to numbness and tingling sensation of the thumb and the two fingers adjoining it. These symptoms are typically described as "hand going asleep". As it worsens, there is weakness, inability to hold objects, and pain. The weakness and discomfort may incapacitate the person from doing any useful work with the affected hand.

CAUSES OF CARPEL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Most often, it is not possible to identify a cause for this condition. However, many factors have been found to be associated with it. These include diseases like diabetes, thyroid deficiency and osteoarthritis.

Excess strain on wrist and repeated strain injuries (RSI) are believed to lead to this condition in most cases. Certain occupations like computer operators, carpenters, packers, musicians and mechanics are likely to be at a greater risk. Hobbies like gardening, needlework, golfing and canoing, which can also lead to excess strain can also lead to this condition.

PREVENTION OF CARPEL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Since it does not have any clear and specific reason in most cases, so prevention of carpal tunnel syndrome can be best achieved by a three-pronged strategy. First is to take care of factors that can lead to it, second is to ensure an early identification of the condition so that further strain is avoided, and third is to follow the common precautionary measures suggested by experts.

1. TAKING CARE OF FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Three diseases found to be associated with carpal tunnel syndrome are diabetes, thyroid deficiency and osteoarthritis. The first two cause this condition by increasing the fluid content, which leads to swelling of the tendons and consequent pressure on the Median nerve. Osteoarthritis creates bony edges which damage Median nerve during movements. Taking care of these conditions by appropriate treatment can reduce the likelihood

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