My boyfriend was recently diagnosed with Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). My sister was diagnosed with CTS 20 years ago and had surgery for it. Both experienced quite a bit of pain, numbness and discomfort from the problem.
CTS happens when tendons passing through the carpel tunnel becomes thickened and inflamed. This inflammation leads to pressure on the nerves, causing pain, numbness and weakness that affects the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers of the hand states Heather Tick, M.D., author of Life Beyond the Carpel Tunnel.
It is believed that repetitive use of computers, prolonged use of tools that vibrate can trigger increase rise on CTS. Pregnancy and menopause and the increase hormone levels of both of those conditions, can make the tendons and nerves prone to becoming strained and swell causing the symptoms of CTS.
If you have been diagnosed with CTS, find physician referrals, and additional articles on the homepage of Yourcity.MD. You may have to wear a wrist or thumb brace (my boyfriend found relief with this). A doctor may recommend you take an anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen, or a prescription anti-inflammatory). The doctor may recommend physical therapy.
Try eating more omega-3 fatty acid filled foods (salmon, sardines…). They may help because they have anti-inflammatory properties.
Surgery is a last resort. It’s not always effective and may require intense physical therapy after-wards.
Check with your doctor for a diagnosis, and investigate and discuss possible resolutions so you can get moving again.