Treating Carpal Tunnel

Are you looking for a hand specialist in Bohemia NY? Have you been experiencing tingling and numbness in your fingers or hand? You may have carpal tunnel syndrome. East End Occupational Therapy offers treatments including hand therapy that can help keep your hands healthy and fully functional. Continue reading to learn more about Carpal tunnel syndrome and how it can be treated.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The median nerve runs through the passageway from the wrist to the hand. This passageway is called the carpal tunnel. The median nerve allows the palm side of the thumb and fingers (except the pinkie) to feel the sensation. It also gives the nerve signals required to move the muscles around the base of the thumb. When too much pressure is applied to the median nerve, you become at risk for carpal tunnel syndrome. This pressure can be applied in various ways, and you will feel tingling and/or numbness in your fingers and hand, not allowing them to function normally.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Various risk factors are associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, all of which contribute to pressure being applied to the median nerve.

Anatomy – If you have a smaller carpal tunnel, there is a greater chance of getting carpal tunnel syndrome.
Inflammatory Conditions – Ex. Rheumatoid arthritis.
Obesity
Workplace Factors – If you work in an environment where your wrist is constantly under stress, you are at a higher risk.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Tingling and/or numbness in the fingers and hand.
Hand weakness