Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a health issue that affects the hands and wrists. Similar to sciatica, caused by the compression or impingement of the sciatic nerve, this health issue happens when the median nerve, found within the carpal tunnel of the wrist along with other tendons in the hand, becomes compressed or impinged. Trauma from an accident to the hand or wrist and/or overuse from repetitive activities, such as constant typing on a keyboard, are common reasons carpal tunnel syndrome develops. The added pressure begins to irritate and compress the median nerve, leading to the impairing symptoms of pain, among others. The most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include pain, tingling sensations, weakness, and numbness on the hands, wrists, and forearms. Pain and numbness in these areas are generally severe. The painful discomfort from these symptoms can affect an individual’s everyday lifestyles. Gripping objects may become difficult as carpal tunnel syndrome progresses over time due to loss of muscle strength. The tingling sensations radiating from the hand is often described as a feeling of “pins and needles” through the hands, wrists, and forearms.
