Signs & Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome involves pain and numbness of the hands. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway of the inner side of the wrist that protects the nerve responsible for bending fingers. This tunnel is surrounded by bones and ligaments. There are many causes of the condition, such as injury or repetitive motion. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are common to a few conditions like arthritis, so a doctor should be consulted.

Pain

• The most common sign of carpal tunnel syndrome is pain in the wrist that can extend to the palm and fingers, and in some cases to the forearm or shoulder.

Numbness

• Tingling or numbness in the hand or fingers is a sign of the disorder. It usually occurs when gripping an object like a phone and all the fingers feel numb except the pinky.

Weakness

• Difficulty in holding objects or dropping them is a symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Swelling

• Occasionally, the hand becomes swollen due to pressure on the nerve.

Persistence

• If pain, numbness and weakness continue for several weeks, you should see a doctor. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to nerve or muscle damage.