One of the most frequently seen upper limb conditions is known as carpal tunnel syndrome. Although it is frequently associated with osteoarthritis and is thus considered by many as being a condition suffered exclusively by older women, this is not the only way in which this issue can come about. In fact, almost anyone can be afflicted with a wrist-related disease. There are certain risk factors involved in the development of this condition, and as such, there are several things you can easily do to reduce the chances of it happening to you. Read on to find out more about the causes of carpal tunnel syndrome and the ways in which it can be treated.
What are the Symptoms?
Fortunately, the symptoms most commonly associated with carpal tunnel complaints are reasonably uniform in nature. This condition is caused as a result of compression of the nerves, which pass through a particular part of the wrist known as the carpal tunnel. When the nerves here are pressed upon by the surrounding bones, it causes pain and numbness in the hand and some of the fingers, particularly the index, middle, and ring fingers. You may find that these unpleasant sensations are exacerbated by the continuous use of your hands. Your symptoms may also worsen at night.
How Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Be Prevented?
As with all forms of disease, prevention is the best cure. With this in mind, you should focus on the particular risk factors associated with carpal tunnel issues and try to lead a lifestyle that avoids them. Certain risk factors are unavoidable, such as age-related osteoarthritis and traumatic injuries to the wrist, but the development of others is completely dependent upon your lifestyle. It has been shown in a multitude of studies that obesity and the subsequent development of Type 2 diabetes make you more likely to develop problems with carpal tunnel in your wrist. A healthy diet and lifestyle ought to make your body less susceptible to this kind of condition.
What is the Best Treatment?
As you might expect, the extent of treatment required depends ultimately upon the level of injury sustained to the wrist and the degree of loss of function that you experience as a result. Wherever you are in the world, you ought to consider undergoing carpal tunnel syndrome treatment in Singapore if you want to have access to highly experienced medical practitioners who make your health their number one priority. The least invasive treatment involves injections of steroids into the joint to reduce inflammation. This is only a temporary measure taken before more permanent treatments can be implemented. In moderate cases, the best option is to use a splint, consisting of a metal bar surrounded by softer material in order to support the joint as it heals. If this doesn’t help sufficiently, the most drastic option is surgery, undertaken to directly release the pressure on the affected area. See your doctor today for more information.