Often, carpal tunnel syndrome is associated with lengthy and frequent keyboard use. However, that's not the only cause. Fortunately, when you visit Dr. Jeffrey Chase of Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Medical Specialists, serving St. Croix and St. Thomas, you can find carpal tunnel syndrome relief. Here's what you should know.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel occurs when pressure is applied to the median nerve, which runs through the wrist's carpal bones, ligament, and tendons. These components form a tunnel around the nerve and can compress it.

The issue sometimes stems from inflammation pressing on the nerve, but a fracture that causes pressure on the nerve could also cause it.

Symptoms 

In most cases, carpal tunnel syndrome causes symptoms that develop gradually over time. However, in cases like a fracture, they could come on suddenly.

As the nerve is compressed or irritated, it could cause you to have numbness in the thumb or middle, index, or ring finger. On the other hand, you could experience tingling, often referred to as a "pins and needles" sensation.

Both tingling and numbness may be more prevalent when you're holding something. Sometimes, it's most noticeable when you first wake up.

We should also note that these symptoms can extend to the wrist and even up your arm.

Weakness in the affected hand could occur. For instance, you may notice you frequently drop items while holding them in your hand. 

Causes  

While the main cause is nerve irritation or constriction, your habits could put you more at risk. For instance, if you use a keyboard regularly and for long periods, you're more likely to develop it. 

If you sustain an injury that damages the nerve, causes inflammation, or puts pressure on the nerve in any way, it could arise.

Some people are more likely to suffer from it, like females who have smaller carpal tunnel, who have a condition that causes nerve damage (like diabetes), or who are obese. Those who regularly use vibrating tools, such as a sander, are likelier.

Treatments 

When you visit our office, serving St. Croix VI and St. Thomas, and nearby regions, you may receive advice, such as:

• Resting the wrist
• Taking breaks during certain tasks
• Using ice for swelling

A doctor may recommend a splint, corticosteroids, or over-the-counter medications. Surgery is advised as a last resort.

Fix Carpal Tunnel Today

Contact Virgin Island Orthopaedics and Medical Specialists at our St. Croix, offices at (340) 692-5000 or the team in St. Thomas, at (340) 714-2845 to see Dr. Chase for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment.