Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects three times more women than men. Possibly because the carpal tunnel, a narrow, rigid passageway made up of bones and ligaments and located at the base of the hand, tends to be smaller in women, swelling, injury or pressure on the median nerve is more easily accomplished, creating the pain and the problem. People with diabetes and other metabolic disorders that affect the nerves can also be at higher risk of developing the condition.
Some occupations seem to lend themselves to the development of carpal tunnel issues. It is especially common in people who perform assembly-line work; in fact it is three times more common in assemblers than in data-entry personnel. Other occupations that seem to be associated with a higher risk of carpal tunnel syndrome are cleaning, meat , fish and poultry packing, and sewing and finishing.
Some workplace accommodations may be helpful. Workers can practice correct posture, and take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks. Stretching exercises and warm-ups before starting work can be helpful. Splints may be worn to keep the wrists straight, and fingerless gloves may help keep the hands warmer and more flexible. Workstations, tools and tool handles may be re-designed to fit the hand more effectively and keep the wrist and hand in a more natural position. These same accommodations can apply to the individual’s home life. Warm-ups and stretching before any athletic endeavors involving the hand and wrist will help prevent many injuries.
If you are bothered by tingling, numbness, or a feeling of itching in the palm of your hand or in your thumb, index and middle finger, or if you have pain radiating up the wrist and the arm, you may have a carpal tunnel issue. Consulting early on with a Board Certified doctor specializing in treating the hand and arm is your best chance for success. Dr. Rehman will provide a thorough evaluation and a therapy program to help you control and eliminate this annoying and painful condition
