9 things you need to know about carpal tunnel syndrome

Imagine that there are hundreds of very fine needles stuck in your fingers, wrists and arms: this is one of the ways patients describe carpal tunnel syndrome, which can also cause tingling, numbness, pain and burning in these parts of the body.

Fortunately, there are very effective treatments for this condition, both to alleviate the symptoms and to eliminate the cause of the problem itself. If you’ve been diagnosed with this syndrome or are experiencing some symptoms, here are 9 things that will help you better understand what’s going on:

1. The whole problem boils down to just one nerve

Even though carpal tunnel syndrome can affect multiple fingers, the root of the problem is compression of just one nerve, known as the median. This nerve comes from the forearm and passes through a narrow channel located in the wrist – called precisely the “carpal tunnel”.

This compression occurs by the thickening of the tunnel or by the abnormal growth (swelling) of the structures that are located in the region. As a result, there is a reduction in blood flow to the nerve, giving rise to symptoms.

2. Computer use is not the main cause of the syndrome

While constant computer use can cause some injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome is not usually one of them. These repetitive movements can even favor the emergence of the problem, but only if you already have a predisposition.

In fact, carpal tunnel thickening does not have a single specific cause and may even have a genetic origin. Still, the syndrome can result from inflammation, fluid retention and even significant weight gain, in addition to conditions such as pregnancy, menopause, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Without treatment, permanent nerve damage can result.

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome come and go, and can bother the patient to different degrees each time they appear. When the problem is caused by something specific, such as weight gain or pregnancy, it will disappear completely when the patient loses weight or gives birth.

However, in other cases, the syndrome usually worsens over time and permanently damages the median nerve if the patient does not receive adequate treatment. Thus, if you are experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention and correctly identify the causes that are behind the problem.

4. Common anti-inflammatories offer momentary relief

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (such as acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, and piroxicam, among others) help reduce carpal tunnel swelling, which will decrease nerve compression and relieve symptoms momentarily. However, these medications should not be used as a long-term solution, as they do not address the root of the problem.

Thus, it is always recommended to consult a doctor to know the best treatment options for your case and cure the syndrome once and for all. It doesn’t hurt to remember that self-medication can bring a number of unwanted side effects.

5. Cold compresses can help reduce symptoms

Applying a cold compress can decrease inflammation around the median nerve and relieve pain and other symptoms related to carpal tunnel syndrome. For this, you can apply a cold water bag to the region for 10 to 15 minutes, rest for 30 to 40 minutes and repeat the compress.

6. You may need to wear a splint to sleep

Spending a few hours with your fists bent can hurt your carpal tunnel and make you wake up in a lot of pain. Therefore, it may be advisable to wear a splint when you go to sleep, ensuring that your wrists are immobilized. Discuss this possibility with your doctor.

7. You may need to inject medication directly into the wrist

When other drug options don’t work, your doctor may recommend an injection of corticosteroids around the carpal tunnel. For greater patient comfort, this injection is done with a very fine needle.

For less severe cases of the syndrome, this treatment can even promote complete healing; and even the most advanced cases can benefit, as the effect of corticosteroids lasts for months.

8. Surgery is the last treatment option and it works very well

If it is not possible to relieve symptoms or completely cure the patient with less invasive treatments, surgery to enlarge the opening of the carpal tunnel may be necessary. It would be something like loosening a hole in a strap that is too tight, which relieves the pressure exerted around the median nerve.

The surgery can be done either in the traditional way, with an incision of about 5 cm, or endoscopically, which requires a much smaller incision for the insertion of the instrument. This choice depends on the severity of the syndrome and, often, on the coverage of health plans. Both are surgeries that last about 30 minutes.

9. There are some ways to prevent this syndrome

Even if the keyboard isn’t the big villain, it’s worth taking 5-10 minute breaks after spending an hour or two doing any repetitive manual work, including typing. Take this time to do these exercises, always with your arms stretched out in front of you:

• Fold your hand up, as if you are making a “stop” sign. Flex and relax the wrist several times;
• Still in the “stop” position, use your other hand to gently push your fingers back. Hold for 10 seconds, release and repeat;
• Close your fingers, hold and release them completely, repeating the movements.

In addition, it is essential that your work environment is equipped with an ergonomic chair and table, footrest and armrest. Your entire body needs to be well aligned to prevent any part from being overworked.

Keep in mind that if you already have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, prevention will not be enough. The best way to avoid a worsening of the condition is to seek professional care.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.