Carpal tunnel in Women's - Treatment - Causes - Symptoms - Delhi, India

Feb. 17, 2011 - PRLog -- CARPAL tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a painful condition caused by compression of a key nerve in the wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The median nerve controls sensations to the palm side of the thumb and fingers — except the little finger — as well as impulses to some small muscles in the hand that allow the fingers and thumb to move. The carpal tunnel, a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand, houses the median nerve and tendons. When this tunnel narrows, it constricts the nerve, causing the various symptoms. Sometimes thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling narrows the tunnel and causes the median nerve to be compressed.
Symptoms usually start gradually, with pain, weakness or numbness in the hand and wrist radiating up the arm. As symptoms worsen, persons may feel tingling during the day. In addition, decreased grip strength may make it difficult to form a fist, grasp small objects or perform other manual tasks
Many studies indicate that women have a significantly higher risk for carpal tunnel syndrome than men do. Women are three times more likely than men to have carpal tunnel syndrome. The explanation for this greater risk is unknown, but it may be related to the smaller size of women's carpal tunnel. In general, women are at higher risk of CTS between the ages of 45 and 54. Then the risk increases for both men and women as they age.
There are many factors that can increase the chance of developing CTS, such as genetic predisposition, injury or trauma to the wrist, obesity, poor nutrition, stress and high levels of LDL (so-called 'bad' cholesterol). Hormonal changes appear to play a major role in CTS. In pregnant women, CTS may occur in both wrists. It has been shown to increase after delivery and during menopause. Persons who use their hands and wrists repetitively are at risk for CTS, particularly if they work in cold temperatures and have factors or medical conditions that make them susceptible. Cigarette smoking slows down blood flow, so that smokers have worse symptoms and slower recovery than non-smokers do. Increased alcohol intake has been associated with CTS in people with other risk factors. In some cases, the cause is unknown.
Initial treatment involves resting the affected hand and wrist, avoiding activities that may worsen symptoms and immobilizing the wrist in a splint to avoid further damage from twisting or bending. I advise my patients to take omega 3 fatty acids, a natural muscle relaxant formulation called Tang Kuei Plus and B vitamins especially pyridoxine -- Vitamin B6. Non-prescription painkillers may also ease the pain. Chiropractic treatment goes to the root of the problem by manipulating the wrist to relieve pressure on joints and ligaments and on the carpal tunnel itself. Yoga is helpful.
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