Warning Signs of Carpal Tunnel

Injuries, genetics, and repetitive use of our hands can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause pain and irritation, and hinder a person’s ability to function at work and home. What are the warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome?

The most common warning signs are pain, tingling, and numbness in the fingers (all but the pinky). Other symptoms may include:

• A feeling that your fingers are full or swollen
• Pain from your hand up your arm
• Pain, tingling, and numbness are usually worse at night and when the affected hand is warm
• Weakness in your hand, making it difficult to pick up and hold objects
• Muscles at the base of the thumb becoming smaller than they used to be

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve becomes compressed. The median nerve travels down the arm into the hand. The nerve can become compressed or squeezed as it passes through the narrow path at the wrist.

This compression can cause the fingers and thumb to feel tingly and numb.

Carpal tunnel syndrome, which can affect one or both hands, is a leading cause of lost time at work in the United States. Once detected, preventative measures can be taken to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent the problem from worsening.

Dr. LT Donovan is one of eight hand surgeons at Summit Orthopedics who evaluates and treats carpal tunnel syndrome. To schedule an appointment with a hand surgeon, call (651) 842-5200.