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Acid Reflux Disease - Symptoms And Treatments

Carpal Tunnel Symptoms to Watch For

by Frank Barnett

There are many different symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome to watch for - this is especially true if you know that you suffer from repetitive stress injuries. These are injuries that are caused by motions that you perform over and over again.

Individuals who work on a computer on a consistent basis, those who work in manufacturing, and even those who play sports or several different types of musical instruments may suffer from stress injuries that are considered to be repetitive. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common type of RSI. Here, you will learn about the various symptoms that are often associated with carpal tunnel.

The first likely symptom from this condition is a tingling sensation in the hand, described by many individuals as 'pins and needles'. Many sufferers will feel experience this in the wrist and hand area - specifically on the fingers. Some individuals also feel this sensation in the forearm. This sensation is often on the inside of the arm, on the same side of the forearm as the thumb. This condition is most likely to affect the thumb, index and middle fingers. In severe (and rare) cases, this sensation may also be felt in the palm area of the hand. The main cause of this sensation is the compression of the median nerve in the wrist, near the 'tunnel'. Compression of the nerve delays and interferes with signals traveling along the nerve, producing the 'pins and needles' sensation.

The risk of finger, hand, or wrist injury is higher in contact sports, such as wrestling, football, or soccer, and in high-speed sports, such as biking, in-line skating, skiing, snowboarding, and skateboarding. Sports that require weight-bearing on the hands and arms, such as gymnastics, can increase the risk for injury. Sports that use hand equipment such as ski poles, hockey or lacrosse sticks, or rackets also increase the risk of injury.In children, most finger, hand, or wrist injuries occur during sports or play or from accidental falls. Any injury occurring at the end of a long bone near a joint may injure the growth plate and needs to be evaluated.Older adults are at higher risk for injuries and fractures because they lose muscle mass and bone strength as they age. They also have more problems with vision and balance, which increases their risk of accidental injury.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a complicated condition that can result in a number of symptoms. The symptoms mentioned so far are among the most common symptoms that one may experience. There are other symptoms, such as:

1. You will lose the ability to grip as you did before the symptoms began presenting.

2. You may find your hands are numb, like they are falling asleep.

3: You may experience pain and discomfort in the arm which stretches from the elbow to wrist.

There could be feeling of stiffness in the area of fingers and wrist.

You may have difficulty doing tasks such as turning your key in the ignition or zipping up a purse.

This guide lists several symptoms of carpal tunnel to watch for. If any of these symptoms sound familiar with you, you may want to set up an appointment with your doctor. They will be able to determine if you do have carpal tunnel, and will instruct you on ways to cope.

Of course, the easiest way to avoid most forms of carpal tunnel syndrome is often to simply upgrade your workstation. If you're tired of the one-size-fits-all equipment that came with your computer, visit Ergonomic Resources today!

Published December 8th, 2008

Filed in Health