Carpal tunnel syndrome Explanation

Some websites try to make the carpal tunnel syndrome explanation complicated (and some cases can be) but your typical carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) case, simply means that the median nerve that runs through your wrist (the carpal tunnel) is being compressed or "pinched" in some way.

Really, any condition that makes the size of the tunnel smaller, or makes the other things/structures in the tunnel larger can produce Carpal Tunnel Symptoms.

CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME EXPLANATION made easy

My patients usually describe the symptoms as a gradual numbness and tingling, dull ache or pain to their hands... They say it "FELLS LIKE MY HANDS ARE GOING TO SLEEP!"

So, over time when enough pressure builds up on the median nerve, the blood supply to the outer layer of the nerve can be decreased or stopped all together.

IF this goes on long enough it can eventually cause that portion of the nerve to die...sometimes causing your symptoms to be permanent! (Thankfully, this can take awhile to occur)

INTERESTINGLY (to me at least) is that the median nerve only supplies the thumb, index, middle and half of the ring finger.

See Anatomy of the carpal tunnel ....SO, guess where you have CARPAL TUNNEL SYMPTOMS?..YOU got it! ONLY in those areas!

Most patients seem to have more numbness and pain at night or in the morning upon waking up ..so bad it wakes them up and they have to shake or rub their hands.

See what's called the FLICK SIGN and other carpal tunnel tests.

This is where Ice Wraps and pain relieving gels after work or play really helps!
(or in my case) after weedeating or mowing the grass...

Also, this is where Wrist Braces during the day and Night Splints or [Nocturnal splints], when sleeping can make a huge difference in your overall carpal tunnel symptoms.

See more information on Non-surgical treatments

Some patients complain of dropping things, or having symptoms while writing, or gripping a steering wheel. They sometimes also complain of weakness in the thumb, hand and wrist, or pain going up the forearm, or neck and shoulder pain, but watch out for this one...it may not be carpal tunnel syndrome at all!

See OTHER CONDITIONS THAT CAN MIMIC CTS

To learn more about the different causes of CTS, continue reading by clicking here carpal tunnel syndrome explanation.

What you have just read...is what I have been describing to my patients for years to help them understand their condition and I hope it helps you as well!

So you can get better and move on with your LIFE!

CTS causes and controversy
Latest diagnostic criteria for CTS
EMG test for CTS
Nerve conduction test for CTS
Lab tests and Xrays for CTS
Carpal tunnel surgery

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