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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tendons in the wrist become inflamed.  This causes tunnels that run through the wrist to narrow and pinch the nerves.  You’ll feel a tingling in your first finger and thumb and often a shooting pain will travel up your arm.  Carpal tunnel usually results from a repetitive strain to your wrist, through activities such as typing, knotting, mechanical or work-related activity and computer use.
 
To prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, you should take frequent breaks and alternate activities to decrease the strain on your wrist.  Arrange your workstation to put the least strain on your wrists.  If you type, you should not have to tilt your wrists to reach the keyboard.  Change the height of your chair or the level of the keyboard.  Before starting work, do a five-minute exercise warm-up.
 
In treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, the first course of action is to immobilize your hand and wrist by wearing a splint.  Most people will benefit from non-steroidal medication and some will require cortisone injections into the wrist to help reduce the swelling.  In some cases, surgery is necessary.  Surgeons open the wrist and cut the ligament in the back to relieve the pressure.  You should also avoid doing everyday movements such as ringing a doorbell or holding a coffee cup.  Although they seem harmless, these motions put extra strain on your wrist.
 
To learn more about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, please contact the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons at 800-346-2267.  You can also visit them online at American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – AAOS
 
Phone code: 1749

888-929-9444

Code 1749

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