Carpal tunnel syndrome is a medical condition that affects many
people. It is typically associated with people who use computers a lot
and are required to do extensive typing for long periods of time. But
what many people are not aware of, is that it is also much more common
in individuals who have Type 2 diabetes.
The carpal tunnel area of
the wrist is, as the name implies, a tunnel for many different
components, including nerves and ligaments, to run through. In fact, the
carpal tunnel itself is surrounded by a band of ligaments. Running
through the middle of the carpal tunnel is the median nerve.
When
an individual subjects their hands to repetitive motions such as typing
on a computer, they risk causing aggravation to this area. The movements
can cause the ligaments to become irritated or thickened. This
thickening then compresses onto the median nerve. Unfortunately, the
same effect can be created by an abnormal increase in collagen caused by
high blood sugar levels.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome
include a tingling sensation usually in the right hand. It generally
affects the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers. However, there are
some instances where the small finger will also be affected. There is
also some numbness of these fingers associated with this problem.
Sometimes, the effects will resonate into the wrist, forearm and even make its way all the way back into the elbow.
Changes
in collagen levels and nerves occur mostly at night, which could
interrupt your sleeping. It will also help to start your day out with
pain.
If you are thinking you may have carpal tunnel syndrome,
your doctor can perform a simple test to determine if you do actually
have it. By placing your hands together in a praying position, your
doctor will be able to determine if you suffer from carpal tunnel
syndrome simply by the way your hands fit together. They can also check
for muscle weakness, which is also a sign of the condition. If the
diagnosis is still in question, they can also order a nerve conduction
test.
Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome involves limited
repetitive movement which would aggravate the median nerve. Your doctor
might advise you to wear a splint which covers your wrist and the top of
your forearm to limit movement and keep the area in a neutral position.
Keeping your wrist straight takes unnecessary pressure off of the wrist
and reduces inflammation. Sometimes, a steroid injection into the area
might become necessary.
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