$Unique_ID{BRK02396} $Pretitle{} $Title{What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?} $Subject{shooting pain arms wrists carpal tunnel syndrome cts thumb fingers wrist arm ligament tendons median nerve musculoskeletal connective tissue tissues ligaments tendon hand muscles middle thumbs finger joint joints} $Volume{M-2,M-17} $Log{ Tendons of the Wrist*0001705.scf} Copyright (c) 1992,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc. What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ QUESTION: After many years of fulfilling all the responsibilities of a housewife and mother, I have now returned to the business world, and am working as a secretary in a small law office. I would really enjoy it if it wasn't for the shooting pain in both arms and wrists that now afflicts me. It started within a few days or returning to office work, and it is interfering with my productivity and peace of mind. I can't afford to lose this job, but I can't stand the pain either. Can you please help me? ------------------------------------------------------------------------------ ANSWER: A visit to your own local family physician may be necessary to confirm my long distance diagnosis, but it sounds like you are one of the many sufferers of the "new industrial epidemic" otherwise known as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). The pain, or sometimes numbness, affects the thumb and first three fingers, and may shoot from there up the wrist and arm. Gradually the pinching strength of these fingers may also be reduced. The carpal tunnel is formed by the bones of the wrist and a dense ligament which passes over them. The tendons, which flex the fingers, pass through this tunnel from the muscles located in the region of the forearm to the bones that form the fingers. The median nerve, which brings electrical impulses to the muscles at the base of the thumb and also carries the sensations from the thumb and first three fingers, likewise passes through this same structure. When overuse causes the tendons to become inflamed and swollen, they press on the nerve, causing some of the symptoms of CTS. Starting your new job, and actively using these muscles and tendons a great deal more than before, is probably the cause of your trouble. It is common in people who do a great deal of typing, as well as carpenters, musicians, assembly line workers, as well as any others who must make the repetitive motions of the fingers. You are going to have to let up a bit, with 15 minute rest periods every two hours to avoid overuse of the tendons. Anti-inflammatory drugs (like NSAIDs or ibuprofen) may help. In some cases a splint may be necessary and some serious cases require surgery. That is why a visit to your doctor now is in order. ---------------- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical problem.