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Recently, the number of people diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome has increased due to the longer use of computers and smartphones. Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to repeated pain and numbness in fingers and hands. Statistically, women develop five times as many cases as men, and usually devlop between the ages of 30 and 60.
The cause of carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the wrist’s medial nerve is pressed due to swelling or combination of hard tissue within the carpal tunnel. Medial nerves are the main nerves that control the senses and functions of the hand. Although the clear cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is unknown, the main cause is considered as repetitive household labor, excessive burden on the wrist due to the use of computers and smartphones, and edema caused by infection or trauma. Also, if you have conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, you are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can occur in one or both hands. Pain is usually felt at night and can be accompanied by secondary symptoms such as sleep disorders. Even in everyday life, the wrist suddenly loses strength, making it difficult to turn the key or lid of the bottle. Moreover, sophisticated movements such as sewing might be difficult. In severe cases, objects that one catches may be dropped due to less power, and hands may feel numb. Mostly, carpal tunnel syndrome is treated as a non-surgical way. The main goal of treatment is to reduce the pressure on the nerves. In the early stages, wrist brace is worn. Also, cold treatment and heat treatment are used to treat inflammation and reduce pain. However, if the pain is severe, the nerves must be cured through surgery to prevent aftereffects.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is likely to recur if it is not properly managed after diagnosis. Frequent use of the wrist in everyday life can lead to excessive fatigue and stress on the wrist. Efforts should be made to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome by refraining from using the wrist and taking proper rest.