Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Essay

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)? It is when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the palm of the hand, has excessive pressure on it. The median nerve is the one that gives you feeling to the bottom side of the thumb and to most of the fingers. Women from ages 30-60 years of age are three times more likely to have carpal tunnel than men. This is because the carpal tunnel itself is smaller in women then it is in men. Carpal tunnel can be caused by many other problems like diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, fluid retention from pregnancy or menopause, high blood pressure, autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, and trauma to the wrist. The symptoms for carpal tunnel come gradually with numbness, tingling, weakness, …show more content…
Early diagnosis and treatment are important to steer clear of lifelong damage to the median nerve. A physical exam of the hands, arms, shoulders, and neck can help decide if the patient's complaints are related to everyday activities or to the disorder, and can rule out other painful conditions that imitate carpal tunnel syndrome. The wrist is examined for tenderness, swelling, warmth, and bruising. Every finger should be examined for sensation, and the muscles at the bottom of the hand should be examined for strength and signs of atrophy. Procedure laboratory tests and X-rays can reveal diabetes, arthritis, and fractures. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is attempting to get basic research on the brain and nervous system, and use the knowledge to reduce the load of neurological disease. NINDS-funded scientists are studying the element that leads to long term nerve pain disorders, and how the affected nerves are related to the numbness, loss of function, and pain. Researchers also are studying biomechanical stresses that provide to the nerve damage that are in charge for symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in order to better understand, treat, and prevent