Carpal tunnel syndrome is a widely common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand is squeeze or compressed as it travels through the wrist.

In many patients, carpal tunnel syndrome will in general deteriorate over time. On the off chance that untreated for a really long time, it can lead to permanent dysfunction of the hand, remembering loss of sensation for the fingers and weakness. Consequently, it is essential to promptly diagnose and treat carpal tunnel syndrome.

It is important to note that the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually start gradually. Having a clear understanding of these symptoms helps ensure you seek treatment within the shortest time possible. One notable symptom you need to keep a close eye on is tingling and numbness.

Actually, tingling and numbness may occur in the fingers or hand. Usually, the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers are affected, but not the little finger. You might have a feeling like an electric shock in these fingers. These symptoms often occur while holding a steering wheel, phone or newspaper, or they may wake you from sleep.

People with carpal tunnel syndrome may also experience weakness in the hand and drop objects. This may be due to numbness or to weakness of the thumb’s pinching muscles, which also are controlled by the median nerve.

Keep in mind anyone can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, but some people are more likely to, including; people who do repetitive motions with their hands and wrists for work, people who use power tools that vibrate, and pregnant people.

Having certain health condition can also increase your carpal tunnel syndrome risk. This mostly among individuals with Rheumatoid arthritis, Gout, Hypothyroidism, Diabetes, Obesity, and Amyloidosis.

So, how do healthcare providers diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome? Well, a healthcare provider will diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome with a physical exam and some tests. They will examine your wrist, hand and fingers and ask about your symptoms. Tell your healthcare provider when you first noticed symptoms and if any activities or time of day make them better or worse.

It is important to note that your healthcare provider will use a combination of physical and imaging tests to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. These include Tinel’s sign, Phalen’s test, Ultrasound, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Wrist X-rays, to mention a few.