About Carpal Tunnel Splint
Carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway at the wrist through which the median nerve and tendons pass to the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed or pinched, usually due to swelling of surrounding tissues, causing symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. These symptoms often worsen at night and can make fine motor skills difficult.
What is the Carpal Tunnel?
It's a tight space in the wrist, formed by carpal bones and a thick ligament.
The median nerve, which controls sensation and movement in part of the hand, travels through this tunnel.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
This is a condition where the median nerve gets compressed inside the carpal tunnel.
Increased pressure within the narrow tunnel can pinch the nerve.
Common Symptoms
Sensory Changes:
Numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
Pain:
Pain in the wrist that can sometimes radiate up the forearm.
Weakness:
Difficulty performing fine motor tasks, like buttoning clothes or holding small objects.
Clumsiness:
Dropping things due to a lack of coordination.
Worsening at Night:
Symptoms often become more severe when sleeping because many people sleep with their wrists flexed.
Causes and Risk Factors
Overuse:
Repetitive hand and wrist motions from activities like typing or using vibrating tools can contribute.
Anatomical Factors:
Some people are born with a smaller carpal tunnel.
Swelling:
Conditions like pregnancy can cause swelling that increases pressure on the nerve.
What to Do
If you experience these symptoms, they may come and go at first, but can worsen over time.
Seek medical attention, as carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition that can be managed with various treatments, such as wrist splints, steroid injections, or surgery.