The carpal tunnel is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. The condition occurs when one of the main nerves of the hand, the median nerve, is pinched or compressed.
In most patients, carpal tunnel syndrome worsens over time, making early diagnosis and treatment important. Initially, symptoms can be alleviated through simple measures, such as wearing a wrist splint or avoiding certain activities.
However, if pressure on the median nerve continues, it can lead to nerve damage and worsening symptoms. To prevent permanent damage, surgery to relieve pressure on the median nerve may be recommended for some patients.
Anatomy
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist, approximately one inch wide. The floor and sides of the tunnel are formed by small bones of the wrist called carpal bones.
The carpal tunnel protects the median nerve and the flexor tendons that bend the fingers and thumb.
The roof of the tunnel is a strong band of connective tissue called the transverse carpal ligament. Because these boundaries are very rigid, the carpal tunnel has a limited capacity to stretch or increase in size.
The median nerve is one of the main nerves of the hand. It appears as a group of nerve roots in the forearm. These roots join together to form a single nerve in the arm. The nerve provides sensation to the thumb and index finger, middle finger, and ring finger, and also controls muscles around the base of the thumb.
The nine tendons that bend the fingers and thumb also pass through the carpal tunnel. These tendons are called flexor tendons.
Description
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tunnel narrows or when the tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell, putting pressure on the median nerve. These tissues are called synovial. Normally, the synovium lubricates the tendons, facilitating finger movement.
When the synovium swells, it takes up space in the carpal tunnel and, over time, compresses the nerve. This abnormal pressure on the nerve can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure exerted on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel.
In most cases, this syndrome is caused by a combination of factors. Studies show that women and older individuals are more likely to develop this condition.
Other risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Symptoms
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may include:
In most cases, symptoms begin gradually, without a specific injury. Symptoms may come and go early on. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms may appear more frequently or persist for longer periods.
Nocturnal symptoms are very common. Many people sleep with their wrists bent and may wake up from sleep. During the day, symptoms often occur when holding something for a long time with the wrist bent forward or backward, such as when using a phone, driving, or reading a book.
Many patients find that moving or shaking their hands helps relieve symptoms.
Natural Remedies
1. Apply a cold compress.
To relieve pain and inflammation, you can place an ice pack wrapped in a towel on the painful wrist, applying pressure for about 15 minutes.
2. Apply a warm compress.
A warm compress can also relieve pain and inflammation. You can also soak your hands and wrists in warm water for pain relief.
3. Let your hands and wrists rest.
If your work requires many repetitive movements of the hands and wrists, take frequent breaks every 15 minutes to relax your hands and wrists.
4. Massage your hands.
Gently massaging your hands and wrists can help alleviate symptoms and reduce their frequency.
5. Wear a wrist splint.
A wrist splint keeps the hand and wrist in a position that minimizes pressure on the median nerve. Wear the splint at night and during the day when possible.
6. Take a pain reliever.
You can take an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen to reduce pain.
7. Apply an anti-inflammatory ointment.
To soothe pain, you can apply an anti-inflammatory ointment that contains, for example, menthol or arnica.
8. Protect your hands from the cold.
Wear fingerless gloves to protect your wrists and hands from the cold.
Supplements for Carpal Tunnel
A helpful approach to reducing the syndrome is increasing elements that can help the body regain its self-healing ability and strengthen the immune system. Among these, we recommend vitamins B6 and C and flavonoids, through the intake of tablets or dietary supplements or fruits and vegetables. In particular, bromelain extracted from pineapple helps reduce pain and swelling, especially in milder forms of carpal tunnel syndrome, while grape seed extract reduces inflammation.
Herbs and Plants
Some herbs and medicinal plants may help combat carpal tunnel syndrome. These include onion and garlic, natural anti-inflammatories, turmeric which alleviates pain, and prostaglandins in the blood. Ginkgo is excellent for its energizing and anti-bloating abilities, as well as ginger, boswellia, and in cases of severe inflammation, black cohosh. This last plant is rich in acetylsalicylic acid and should not be taken by individuals allergic to aspirin or by those suffering from serious stomach conditions.
If your symptoms do not improve and worsen enough to compromise your normal activities, consult a doctor.
Medical Examination
During the evaluation, your doctor will ask about your general health and medical history and will inquire about your symptoms.
They will carefully examine your hand and wrist and perform a series of physical tests.
