Pins and needles in the fingers or sharp pain in the wrist felt during the night may be the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. It is most often diagnosed in people who perform heavy physical activity or constant monotonous movements at work. This condition is diagnosed primarily in women. Carpal tunnel syndrome has a strong impact on the quality of life, therefore it is very important to respond to these primary symptoms and seek professional help as soon as possible.
At the start, carpal tunnel syndrome manifests itself as pins and needles in the fingers, which eventually increase over time.
If nothing is done about it, wrist pain becomes sharp and unbearable.
Finally, the fingers lose sensitivity, which makes it hard to hold items and use hands, as well as increases the risk of getting hurt.
There are multiple causes of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as anatomical peculiarities of the wrist, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, local inflammation, injuries, or monotonic and long work, as well as pregnancy and menopause. During pregnancy, the carpal tunnel syndrome can increase because the tissues accumulate more water than usual. Smokers will tend to experience more intense symptoms than non-smokers.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist which protects the median nerve and the tendons that flex the fingers and thumb. The floor of the tunnel is made of bone and the roof of the tunnel is made of connective tissue so it is quite rigid with little capacity to stretch. If the tunnel becomes narrowed by swelling of any of the tissues within, this will create pressure on the nerve which will cause symptoms.
In the beginning, the syndrome can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and a hard splint. If these methods are ineffective, the recommended alternative is surgery, during which the wrist canal is opened, which can be done both endoscopically and openly.
