Carpal Tunnel Syndrome FAQ
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist.
What are the common symptoms of CTS?
Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, often causing discomfort and difficulty with hand movement.
What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Factors like repetitive hand movements, arthritis, or certain medical conditions can lead to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a physical exam, possibly followed by nerve conduction studies or electromyography to assess nerve function.
What are the treatment options for CTS?
Treatment may include wrist splinting, medications to reduce swelling and pain, corticosteroid injections, or in severe cases, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve.
Is surgery the only option for severe cases of CTS?
In severe cases, surgery to relieve the pressure on the median nerve is usually considered when other treatments have not provided relief.
Can CTS be prevented?
Prevention involves maintaining ergonomic hand and wrist positions, taking breaks from repetitive tasks, and addressing any underlying medical conditions that may contribute to the development of CTS.
Is CTS common in office workers?
Yes, CTS is relatively common in those who perform repetitive hand movements, such as typing or using a mouse for extended periods, especially when not using proper ergonomics.
Is there a link between CTS and arthritis?
Yes, arthritis can lead to secondary compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, contributing to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
What medications are commonly prescribed for CTS?
Medications such as Neurontin, Lyrica, Cymbalta, Pregabalin, and Gabapentin are commonly prescribed to manage the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Are there non-pharmacological treatments for CTS?
Yes, non-pharmacological treatments include wrist splinting, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications to reduce symptoms and improve hand function.
Can CTS affect both hands?
Yes, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can affect one or both hands, with symptoms varying in severity and persistence.
Is CTS more common in women?
Yes, CTS is more common in women, and it often occurs during pregnancy or menopause due to hormonal changes and fluid retention.
What are the potential complications of untreated CTS?
Untreated CTS can lead to persistent numbness and weakness in the hand, decreasing hand function and potentially causing long-term nerve damage.
Can CTS symptoms worsen at night?
Yes, many individuals with CTS experience worsening of symptoms at night, which can affect sleep quality and overall comfort.
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