6 Facts of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome You Should Know
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects millions worldwide, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers or hands, especially the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the thumb side of the ring fingers. With our increasing reliance on computers and handheld devices, it is more critical than ever to understand this prevalent condition. Here are six essential facts you should know about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
It’s Not Just Computer-Related
Why It’s Important:
Contrary to popular belief, CTS is not solely associated with computer usage. Various other factors can contribute to its onset.
What You Need to Know:
Activities involving repetitive hand movements, wrist injuries, and certain medical conditions like diabetes can also induce CTS.
Women Are More Susceptible
Why It’s Important:
Gender plays a role in the likelihood of developing CTS, with women being three times more likely to have it than men.
What You Need to Know:
Hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy, are thought to contribute to the increased prevalence among women.
Diagnosis Requires Multiple Tests
Why It’s Important:
CTS is diagnosed through symptom history, physical examinations, and, sometimes, nerve conduction studies.
What You Need to Know:
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term damage to the median nerve.
Non-Surgical Treatments Exist
Why It’s Important:
Surgery is not always the only solution; conservative treatments like wrist splints and corticosteroid injections can provide relief.
What You Need to Know:
Lifestyle changes, such as ergonomic adjustments, can also alleviate symptoms.
Surgical Intervention Is Highly Effective
Why It’s Important:
If conservative treatments fail, surgical intervention has a high success rate in alleviating symptoms.
What You Need to Know:
The most common surgery, carpal tunnel release, has a high success rate but requires post-operative care.
It Can Be Prevented
Why It’s Important:
Preventive measures, including ergonomic adjustments and regular breaks, can stave off or mitigate the severity of CTS.
What You Need to Know:
Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight are other effective preventive strategies.
Dr. Yugal Karkhur on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
With his meticulous approach to patient care and robust experience in orthopaedics, Dr Yugal Karkhur is adept at diagnosing and treating conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Through combining the latest diagnostic techniques and treatment modalities, Dr. Yugal ensures that each patient receives an individualised treatment plan tailored to their needs.
Disclaimer: The content of this blog is intended for educational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised healthcare recommendations, please consult a specialist physician. The results of treatments vary from person to person.