Are you feeling numbness or tingling in your fingers and wrists? Do you spend long periods of time typing or writing? Then, you may suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, a condition that impacts the median nerve in your hand. While early signs may not be significant, long-term suffers could find it quite debilitating. Here are three things to understand about the medical condition.
- Several Factors Cause It
While computer typing has appeared to increase numbers, other life events and health circumstances could influence its appearance. Women, for instance, appear to be more prone to Carpal Tunnel than men. In addition, people who once suffered fractures or breaks in the wrist may also be more likely to develop the syndrome. Futhermore, swelling and excess weight gain could also press on the wrist nerves, causing flare-ups as well.
- Medical Professionals Could Help
Seek medical help from experts in the field, such as an orthopedic hand specialist Houston. During the appointment, discuss when you noticed symptoms and how it has evolved. Along with a physical exam, expect staff to run several tests. Once the results are in, the doctors should recommend a plan of treatment that could range from taking medicine to scheduling surgery. Ask about the outcomes, insurance expense and healing time.
- At-Home Treatments Do Exist
If you aren’t ready for surgery or medicine, then consider changing your daily habits. Your goal is to minimize the force or pressure put on your wrist. This feat requires adjusting how you type (using softer touches) or taking more frequent breaks. In addition, consider dieting changes that reduce inflammation or help take off the extra pounds.
Don’t sit around hoping that the pain will go away. Seek help from those in the medical community, asking about how you may find relief. Options exist; reach out and discuss what works best for you.
