Many self-diagnose this condition because of its common signs, weakness of the wrist and numbness and tingling in the fingers. The name ‘Carpal Tunnel’ comes from the small space in the arm that runs tendons from the forearm to the wrist. Inside this space is the meridian nerve, the cause of the symptoms you experience with Carpal Tunnel. The weakness, numbness and tingling is caused by pressure on this nerve. The pressure is often caused by swelling which can be easily reduced on your own!
Proper Diagnosis
It’s important to get a diagnosis from your doctor because there are many other causes for the symptoms you are experiencing. Your doctor will know the exact questions needing answers to direct you to a Carpal Tunnel diagnosis. Beyond this you will have a physical examination of the arms, neck and shoulders as well as your wrist, hands and fingers. X-Rays, blood tests, nerve tests or other procedures could be employed to assist in diagnosis. The most definitive diagnosis will improve your chances of achieving the results you want through treatment.
Being Pro-active
The sooner you begin treatment, the better chances you’ll have of stopping your symptoms and preventing long term damage to the meridian nerve. If you have mild symptoms you may be able to do this completely on your own. Limiting activities that are strenuous and resting in between will help to prevent further damage. Icing the site for 10 minutes twice an hour when symptoms occur will reduce the swelling and its related pain and encourage healing. Anti-inflammatory medications can achieve similar results. Wearing a wrist splint or support product at night will take much needed pressure off the nerve and improve healing by leaps and bounds.
Wrist Support Products on the Market
There are many designs available for you to choose from when it comes to purchasing a brace or support for your wrist. Ultimately, many deciding factors will be a matter of your preference, but it’s important to choose yourself a material and design that is rigid. From the forearm to the base of your hand or palm should have rigidness to keep your wrist from moving throughout the night and while you rest. For ultimate comfort you can order a brace with a removable and moldable metal stay that can conform to your wrist personally.
Future Care
Caring for your whole body is recommended to keep CTS from returning and just like any weight lifting, there is proper form to use to care for your hands and wrists.
Use these guidelines: