Day in and day out, many of us are spending most of our work days hunched in front of a computer. This activity may sound harmless, but over time, incorrect posture while sitting at your desk can lead to a painful condition called carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a repetitive strain injury caused by inflammation of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel of the wrist [1]. It is a common injury that can afflict any worker that performs the same job, everyday, using their hands and wrists. Because of this, office and industry workers are the most at risk [2].
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes a great deal of wrist pain, in addition to numbness, tingling, and weakness of the thumb, index, and middle fingers. The condition is first treated with medications, splinting, exercises, or ergonomic evaluation. In severe cases, surgical intervention involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a very confined space. The smallest amount of inflammation in the area can compress the median nerve, which in turn causes pain and numbness [3]. Surgically opening the tunnel releases median nerve compression and relieves the associated symptoms.
Recovering from carpal tunnel syndrome can be a long and drawn out process: especially if surgery necessary. So to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome in the first place, be aware of your work environment [4]. If you are sitting at a desk and using a keyboard and mouse, make sure that your elbows and wrists are supported. If you work in an industrial environment, be aware that repetitive and forceful hand movements cause carpal tunnel syndrome; therefore, overexposure to repetitive movements should be avoided [2].
If you are one of the unlucky ones suffering from chronic wrist pain, remember that you have options. Ask for an ergonomic evaluation at work and consult with a physician as soon as you can. Carpal tunnel syndrome is treatable—you do not need to suffer in silence.
*DISCLAIMER: These are not medical diagnoses or suggestions for any specific individuals. They are an overview of various conditions, treatments and topics discussed by New York Pain Management Group. If you would like to discuss your symptoms in greater detail, do not hesitate to contact the New York Pain Management Group. To learn more about treatment options for this and other pain conditions, contact us today at www.nopainny.com or call at 1-888-789-NOPAIN! We will be happy to assist you