Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common health conditions that affect the hand. It happens when pressure is frequently placed on the median nerve, which runs from the palm to the forearm. Learn how to identify carpal tunnel syndrome’s symptoms, its common causes, risk factors, and more with this in-depth discussion by your Leesburg neurology expert.

Symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome affects around 3-6% if adults in the general population, making it the most prevalent form of entrapment neuropathy. Its symptoms are related to the compression or irritation of the median nerve, which leads to:

• Pain in the fingers, hand, wrist, arm, or forearm
• Numbness in the hand or wrist
• Tingling or pins and needles sensation
• Weakness in the hand and wrist
• Difficulty in holding or gripping

These symptoms get worse over time for most patients, so early diagnosis and treatment is critical.

Causes

Most patients cannot identify the exact cause of their carpal tunnel syndrome. A neurologist in Leesburg narrow down its causes to the following:

• Repetitive movements involving the hands and wrists, such as typing, playing instruments, and using hand tools
• Health conditions, such as obesity, hypothyroidism, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis
• Pregnancy

Risk Factors

People who are most at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome are those who:

• are pregnant
• are overweight
• have previously injured, sprained, or broken their wrist
• have a parent or sibling with carpal tunnel syndrome
• do work or have hobbies that involve bending of their wrists and gripping items repetitively, such as cashiers, writers, artists, musicians, factory workers, mechanics, and carpenters

Diagnosis

Neurology specialists employ various tests to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, such as nerve conduction studies, which involve measuring nerve function in the arm and hand.

Treatment

Most of carpal tunnel syndrome’s symptoms can be relieved with simple measures, such as avoiding the activities that triggered them and using a wrist splint. However, that does not mean that patients can put off expert treatment, which may include:

• Painkillers
• Hand Exercises
• Lifestyle Changes
• Surgery

If you think you or someone you know is suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, do not adopt or recommend these treatments. Consult with a neurologist immediately. Treatment is based on the patient’s specific diagnosis and background, so only specialists are qualified to prescribe these solutions.

Consult a Neurologist Immediately at the First Sign of the Condition

Keep an eye out for carpal tunnel syndrome’s symptoms, especially if you have an occupation that leaves you vulnerable to the condition. If you experience any of its indications, set an appointment with Dr. Sarbjot Dulai.

Under the care of your trusted neurologist in Leesburg, VA, you will be able to get an accurate diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment immediately. Do not wait for the symptoms to get worse before seeking expert care. Call Neurology Associates now at (703) 726-6393 to schedule a consultation.