Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

 

Occupational Injury, Pinched Nerve, Compression Nerve Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome may be considered a result of sustained occupational injury. It became very common since the widespread use of computers.

Initially the syndrome consists of fairly benign and reversible symptoms that can be remedied with conservative measures.   Early diagnosis and treatment is critical to avoid permanent nerve damage and disability.

 

Mechanism of Injury, Repetitive Stress, Overuse syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is an overuse syndrome that is caused by nerve compression and repetitive stress. The syndrome involves the median nerve, passing through the carpal tunnel along with the flexor tendons of the forearm. During repetitive finger movements, the tendons traveling with the nerve in the tunnel, become taut and hard like a chord, affecting the median nerve by thousands of impacts, causing repetitive stress and nerve compression.

Nerve Block, Nerve Dysfunction, Numbness, Muscle Weakness, Muscle Atrophy

The resulting nerve block impairs impulse propagation along the nerve and causes nerve dysfunction, consisting of pain, numbness, muscle weakness and atrophy of the hand.

Patient Education, Early Diagnosis, Irreversible Damage, Nerve necrosis

Early diagnosis and treatment are of critical importance, since chronic and neglected symptoms of nerve compression could result in irreversible damage and permanent hand dysfunction, due to nerve necrosis. Treatment consists of patient education, improved hand positioning, wrist brace and physical therapy, including ultrasound, neuromuscular reeducation and positive reinforcement. Timely diagnosis and treatment may result in excellent improvement.

If you are suffering of carpal tunnel syndrome do not hesitate to seek timely, professional help.

Call New York Midtown Orthopedics for an appointment !

 

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