Facts about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a fairly common condition of the hand in which the median nerve becomes compressed within the carpal tunnel. It can be a painful and sometimes debilitating condition, and should be diagnosed by a hand specialist who can recommend treatments.

Risk Factors and Other Facts About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:

• In the United States, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects 1 in 3 people per 1000 per year.
• Women are three times more likely to develop the condition.
• It is not often diagnosed in people under 20 years of age, and the chance of developing the condition increases with age.
• Pregnancy can cause Carpal Tunnel. Sometimes it will resolve after pregnancy, but sometimes more intervention is needed.
• The pinky finger and half of the ring finger are not affected by Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, because the ulnar nerve, rather than the median nerve, runs through them.
• Heredity, is a more important factor than repetitive motion when it comes to developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Small carpal tunnels tend to run in families, and a small carpal tunnel makes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome much more likely.
• If left untreated, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can lead to permanent thumb muscle damage.
• Carpal Tunnel pain is often worse at night because there is an increase in fluid in the area, causing increased pressure on the median nerve.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause pain in the neck, shoulder, arm and hand.
• The type of pain caused can vary, from electric shock-type sensations, to tingling.
• Treatments including rest, splinting, exercises and surgery may be recommended. Learn more about these here.

If you have more questions about Carpal Tunnel and what to do about it, click here to read more.

If you think you are experiencing symptoms, seek medical help from a hand specialist. It’s important to find a hand doctor who is fellowship trained (has FACS after his or her name) to ensure they’ve undergone intensive vetting and practice standards. The team at Midwest Hand Surgery is here to help. Give us a call to make an appointment with one of our hand specialists or click here to request an appointment. We look forward to seeing you in one of our Chicagoland offices.

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