Carpal tunnel syndrome

Do you have tingling or numbness in your hand and wrist? Or an electric shock-like feeling mostly in the thumb, index, and middle finger that shoots through the wrist and up your arm? You may have carpal tunnel syndrome!

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. It is the most common work-related repetitive motion injury. Other causes include trauma or injury to the wrist, rheumatoid arthritis, and fluid retention due to pregnancy or menopause.

Early diagnosis and treatment are important to avoid permanent damage to the median nerve. Conservative care is an excellent initial treatment care option. This includes massage, exercise, and ergonomics, as well as adjusting the neck, shoulder, elbow and the wrist. Vitamin B6 may help ease the symptoms.