A Real Pain in the Wrist: Carpal Tunnel 101
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a relatively common condition that occurs when there’s too much pressure on the median nerve that crosses the wrist. It’s caused by multiple factors, including repetitive movements, workplace ergonomics, and genetics. Patients who have carpal tunnel syndrome will experience numbness in the hands and fingers, which then leads them to have trouble sleeping. They may be tossing and turning and waking up in the middle of the night to shake out their hands.
Remedies for carpal tunnel syndrome start with conservative treatments. “Wrist splints can help relieve the night symptoms, and there are also nerve and tendon gliding exercises you can do at home,” said Dr. Allison Hunter, orthopedic surgeon at Baldwin Bone and Joint. “Your doctor might also prescribe anti-inflammatories to decrease pain and swelling.”