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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition where the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. It is also known as 'Median Neuropathy', in medical terminology. The Nervous system of the body is responsible for all communication in the body, and all sensory perceptions are coordinated through a dense network of nerves which are nothing but large networks of nerve cells.
The median nerve is one such nerve that passes through the arms and through the wrist. Carpals are nothing but the bones of the wrist and lower palm. While the median makes its way to the falanges (finger bones), it needs to pass the wrist.
The carpals form an enclosed opening like a canal at the wrist which is called, 'carpal tunnel'. Seven tendons (tendons join muscle to bones) pass through this tunnel, leaving a very small opening for the median nerve to pass. The size of the carpal tunnel is constricted by the movement of the wrist when the palm along with fingers point downwards .If for any reason, the size of the carpal tunnel is substantially reduced, then the nerve is constricted or ruptured which results in the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
The symptoms are generally felt as pain in the fingers, especially the thumb and the index fingers and muscle weakness in the upper arm. This condition is seen to have a high incidence in middle-aged people. Moreover, it is more common in men than in women. The general cause for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is found to be excessive and repetitive stress on the wrist. This condition is generally found in workers who require a prolonged use of their hands and wrists in industrial applications. It can also sometimes be caused by trauma, following the fracture of any of the bones of the arms.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is generally treated by the administration of anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids, which should only be taken on the prescription of a medical doctor. If these methods fail, a surgical procedure called carpal tunnel release is performed; this has given very good results, and generally helps to solve the problem. In many cases, a splinter is used to keep the palm straight. This restricts the constriction of the carpal tunnel and enhances the recovery process. One most take care of one's positioning of the wrist and hands while doing work and generally this small but very important effort, does provide relief. Also, one must not continue typing for extended periods and must give the wrists and arms adequate rest. One should see a doctor immediately, if one feels pain or numbness in the fingers and palms. Physiotherapy and occupational therapy is also known to work and one may consult a qualified practitioner for the same.
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