Do you wake up feeling numb, or with burning sensations around your fingertips? It's not just you. Carpal tunnel syndrome, also known as CTS, is one of the most prevalent nerve compression disorders that is seen in the present. It is caused when the median nerve of your wrist is compressed by an extremely narrow passage known as the carpal tunnel.

CTS can affect millions of people and may cause simple tasks, such as using the phone, typing, or cooking, to become incredibly difficult. Because it is so prevalent, there are many myths about carpal tunnel syndrome that continue to be circulated and cause confusion to people.

We'll discuss the carpal tunnel syndrome myths and truth, the factors that are the real cause of CTS and the most common signs that can be used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, and the most effective treatment options that are available to treat carpal tunnel syndrome right now. This is a straightforward but complete guide. Understanding CTS will allow you to get a better understanding and take the correct steps at an early stage.

Busting Common Carpal Tunnel Myths (and Sharing the Facts)

Below are the most well-known myths and facts about carpal tunnel to support these misconceptions:

Myth: Typing Causes CTS

The majority of individuals believe carpal tunnel disorder can only be caused by typing directly; however, this is not true in all aspects. The symptoms can be made worse by typing, prolonged usage of computers, or repetitive activities, but they're not the sole cause. CTS usually develops as a result of many causes, such as genetic causes for the illness, health issues, or the shape that the hand.

Myths: CTS is an unimportant disease that heals itself over time.

The truth is that it's not recommended to overlook CTS. The pressure constantly placed on the median nerve can cause irreparable nerve injuries. If you don't get the right treatment to treat your carpal tunnel condition, you may be afflicted with numbness, weakness, or pain.

Myth: Surgery Is the Only Cure

The reality isn't so straightforward. Mild and moderate CTS is treatable without surgery. Exercises, rest, splints and ergonomic adjustments, and medication are helpful for many patients before surgery.

Myth: CTS Affects the Entire Hand

It is a fact that CTS affects only certain fingers- the thumb, the index finger, the middle finger, and the half of the ring finger. The tiny finger (pinky) isn't affected as its control comes from a distinct nerve.

Understanding the Facts: Causes and Symptoms of CTS

What Is the Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal tunnels are a small space in your wrist that is comprised of bones and an incredibly robust ligament. Median nerves, along with the tendon passages, pass through this small space. If the tunnel is constricted or enlarged, it puts tension on the nerve that causes carpal tunnel syndrome.

Key Symptoms



The most common symptoms of carpal tunnel reported signs of carpal tunnel include:

  • The sensation of tingling, numbness, or burning sensations on the fingers (except those fingers that are most tiniest)
  • The pain of the night can wake you up from sleeping
  • Hand weakness or difficulty grasping objects
  • The pain can travel across the arm, sometimes towards the shoulder
  • The facts about carpal tunnel syndrome can help people realize that CTS is the result of nerve compression and not a muscle-related issue.

Main Risk Factors & Causes

The most frequently mentioned factors that can cause carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • Genetics: Certain people have smaller carpal tunnels.
  • Conditions of health like thyroid and diabetes, Rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems.
  • Repetitive work may require forceful and repetitive movements of the wrist, strong tools, as well as vibrating machines.
  • Obesity and pregnancy are both conditions that can cause swelling of the wrist, which can cause nerve compression.

The Diagnosis Process: What to Expect

The Importance of a Professional Diagnosis

Self-carpal tunnel diagnosis can be a mess since a myriad of conditions can mimic CTS. A correct diagnosis of the carpal tunnel by a qualified doctor guarantees that you receive the proper treatment.

Physical Examination & Tests
A doctor can be able to:

  • Tinel's Sign: Tap on the median nerve to look for the sensation of tingling
  • The Phalen's test: Flexion of the wrist that causes symptoms.
  • Examining the strength of your thumb and muscle loss.
  • These tests are simple and prove CTS in the majority of instances.

Diagnostic Tests (Imaging & Nerve Studies)

To determine the severity of the condition, doctors can suggest:

  • Neuroconduction Studies: The test determines the speed at which signals travel through the nerve's median nerve.
  • EMG: Identifies the muscle activity caused by the nerve.
  • Ultrasound: reveals the swelling of nerves or compression.
  • X-rays: used to determine if there are any fractures or arthritis.


These tests offer the most precise and accurate confirmation of the presence or absence that carpal tunnel is the cause.

Effective Treatment Options

The most effective carpal tunnel treatment is dependent on the extent of the issue. The majority of mild cases or those that begin early, doctors will try every non-surgical approach initially to reduce discomfort and tension over the nerves of the medial.

Conservative [Non-Surgical] Treatment

  • Rest & Activity Change: Your nerves will be able to relax and recover by taking breaks and staying clear of activities that create strain.
  • Wrist Splints: A wrist brace or splint is typically worn in the evening. It is designed to keep your wrist straight while you are asleep. This eases pressure on the median nerve. It also helps reduce tingling and numbness.
  • Medicines: Simple pain-relieving medications such as NSAIDs can be found to alleviate pain. In some instances, doctors may inject steroids directly into your carpal tunnel to lessen swelling.
  • Physiotherapy: The symptoms can be cured through exercising, stretching exercises, as well as adjusting your posture and working environment. A therapist will show you how to perform movements with your wrist.

The following steps are usually the initial therapy for the carpal tunnel and can be effective for many patients before surgery is needed.

Surgical Treatment (Carpal Tunnel Release)

Surgery is not recommended unless symptoms are extremely severe or other treatments do not work to alleviate them. Carpal Tunnel Surgery in Gurgaon is usually done by:

  • Open surgery
  • Endoscopic surgery


In both cases, the ligament that is tight is cut to free the medial nerve. It is usually rapid, often within two weeks.

If you require professional treatment, an Orthopedic Doctor in Gurgaon will suggest the most effective surgical or non-surgical option based on the health of the body.

Conclusion

Carpal tunnel-related pain is common; however, if it's detected early enough and correctly treated, they are successfully treated. Knowing the true symptoms of carpal syndrome, their causes, and their treatment will help you prevent confusion and receive prompt assistance.

If you're experiencing tingling or the feeling of numbness or discomfort in your wrists, don't ignore it. The quick identification that the tunnel is carpal can assist in avoiding injury to the nerve that may last for a lengthy period of time.

To receive the right advice, you should seek advice from an expert like Dr. Yugal Karkhu, the best orthopaedic in Gurgaon with over 14+ years of experience. If you require a thorough assessment, as well as Carpal Tunnel Surgery in Gurgaon.