Numbness in hands? It might be Carpal tunnel syndrome

Are you experiencing numbness, tingling, weakness and pain in the hand and arm while you are typing on the computer? If yes, then you might be suffering from Carpal tunnel syndrome.

What is Carpel Tunnel Syndrome?

This condition occurs when the major nerve- the median nerve- is compressed or pinched as it travels to the wrist through a passage called carpal tunnel. Carpel tunnel is a narrow passage between the wrist bone and the fibrous tissue. The floor and sides of the tunnel are formed by small wrist bones called carpal bones. The carpal tunnel protects the median nerve and flexor tendons. The median nerve is one of the main nerves in the hand. Women have smaller Carpal tunnel than men, so women are more likely to get this condition than men.

Carpal tunnel syndrome may result from an injury, swelling or inflammation of the carpal tunnel, which makes the tunnel narrow compressing the median nerve. You may feel numbness of fingers which might interfere with hand strength and sensation.

Symptoms of Carpal tunnel syndrome

You might experience burning, tingling or itching in the palm of your hand and thumb, index and middle finger. Pain and tingling may travel up the forearm towards the shoulder. Weakness & clumsiness in the hand makes it difficult to perform fine movements. You might find yourself dropping things.

Usually it happens at night because of the relaxed position of your hands and as many people sleep with their wrists bend. Severe pain may awaken you from sleep.

Are you at risk?

Not only people using computer can get Carpal tunnel syndrome but it can develop in people with frequent, repetitive hand and wrist movement. People at risk include Assembly line workers, Musicians, Bakers, technicians, sewer or knitter, carpenters, Hair stylist, cashier, mechanics.

It may also be associated with certain medical conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, trauma to wrist. Heredity is likely an important factor. It is common during pregnancy too.

As the pressure on the median nerve continues, it can lead to nerve damage and worsening of the symptoms. Pain and muscle cramping will become worse. You may have less grip strength, along with weakness in the thumb. Early diagnosis and treatment is important.

Diagnosis & treatment

Certain tests can be done such as Electrophygiological tests. This can also help to determine whether you have another nerve condition, such as neuropathy, X-rays, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Early symptoms can often be relieved by taking rest, icing the wrist, activity changes, certain exercise, wearing a wrist splint and medicines.

In severe cases of carpal tunnel syndrome you might have to opt for surgical treatment. The surgery might give rise to complications such as bleeding, infection, nerve aggravation or injury. Even a complete recovery may not be possible.

Homeopathic medicines are best for the carpal tunnel syndrome, as they are safe and effective with no side-effects. Homeopathic medicines like Ruta graveolens, bellis perennis, arnica, causticum, rhus tox, hypericum have given best results in clinical practice.

So if the pain in your hand and arm wakes you up from your sleep or if you are getting weakness, tingling and numbness in your hand and finding it difficult to button your shirt…..then rush to your homeopathic doctor immediately!