CTS

Ever since I have been in my school program I have read and learned so much about carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), it is a very common injury to have and takes a huge effect on people. I do not personally know this injury, and I am still in school learning more and more about it, I can provide the information that I have learned so far. First, what is CTS? To sum it up very briefly, it is a compression of the median nerve in your wrist under the transverse carpal ligament causing tingling numbness, and irritation.

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In my clinic I see CTS patients all the time, one of the most common interventions that is used is ultrasound, I have seen paraffin wax as well, but ultrasound has shown a better outcome. Some exercises that are typically used are range of motion exercises which include wrist extension, flexion, etc. Studies have shown that wearing a wrist splint at night can relieve the pressure of the median nerve reducing the pain, studies have also shown that you do not want to use heat on your wrist if you have CTS which could lead to inflammation.

What causes CTS? Well several things, some health illnesses like arthritis, obesity, gout, etc. Repeated hand and wrist movements, so you will see a lot of hair dressers, writers and receptionists that get diagnosed with CTS. Pregnancy is also another cause of CTS. How can you prevent it? I have read articles and studies that have shown having a healthy diet, and exercise can reduce the chances of one getting CTS.

How can you ease the symptoms at home? The best advice you can get is from your Doctor. There are several studies that say resting your wrist will help ease the pain, also putting ice on your wrist 5-10 minutes has brought a lot of relief to patients in the studies.

I hope this article was helpful, I would like to remind everyone that I am still a student, so I am still learning. Like I said, the best advice you can get is from your doctor. Thank you for reading!