WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME (CTS) ?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused when the Median Nerve is irritated through pressure or swelling in and around the Carpal Tunnel. Any condition that causes swelling or irritation of the Synovial Membrane around the tendons in the Carpal Tunnel can cause pressure on the Median Nerve. The most common symptons of CTS include pain, numbness and tingling of the wrist, hand and fingers (except the little finger, since it is not affected by the Median Nerve). Other symptoms include a sense of weakness and tendency to drop things. Lastly, there may be shooting or referred pain from the hand to the elbow and shoulder. Symptoms are usually worse at night and as the condition worsens, they may remain during the day.
WHAT CAUSES CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?
Any condition that exerts pressure on the Median Nerve can cause CTS. These include swelling of the Synovial Membrane tendon inflammation and any condition that reduces the available space in the Carpal Tunel. CTS can result from activities that cause flexion of the wrist and fingers such as repetitive and forceful grasping with the hands and repetitive bending of the wrist. Other causes include injury and trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, diabetes, and hormonal changes of pregnancy and menopause.
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