Have you ever felt an aching, burning, or numbing pain in your palm, wrist, thumb, or fingers? Or perhaps a sensation like your fingers are asleep or being pricked by pins? It could mean a lot of things, but one concerning cause is carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed.
Anyone can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, but it is usually more common in females aged between 40-60. In severe cases, people with carpal tunnel syndrome may require surgery; however, there are non-surgical remedies that may also help treat the condition effectively. Here’s all a doctor wants you to know.
Also Read: Could Your Hand Symptoms Be More Than Just an Issue? 10 Conditions to Know About
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist, often due to repetitive hand motions, anatomical factors, or underlying medical conditions like arthritis or pregnancy, Dr Soumya Chakraborty, Consultant Orthopaedics, Fortis Hospital, Anandapur, tells the OnlyMyHealth team.
Early signs include numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, especially at night, she adds.
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects 4–5% of the global population. A June 2022 study at Dilchora Referral Hospital in Eastern Ethiopia, involving 260 patients with musculoskeletal complaints, found a carpal tunnel syndrome prevalence of 10.8%. Significant risk factors included being female, physical inactivity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, a hand ratio ≤2.1, and a wrist ratio ≥0.72.
Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Be Treated Without Surgery?
The good news is that carpal tunnel syndrome is curable and can be treated without surgery, says Dr Chakraborty. “Treatments include wearing a wrist splint to immobilise the wrist, taking Over-the-Counter (OTC) pain relievers like ibuprofen, and modifying activities to reduce repetitive hand motions.”
In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation. If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may be considered.
Ways To Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Without Surgery
Hand exercises
Certain exercises can help alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms. These include:
- Wrist stretches (flexion and extension)
- Nerve glides
- Finger stretches
Dr Chakraborty says that these exercises can improve flexibility, reduce nerve compression, and strengthen the muscles in the hand and forearm.
However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise regimen, especially if you have severe symptoms or underlying medical conditions.
Also Read: Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Lead To Neck Pain? Expert Explains The Connection And How To Manage It
Wrist braces and ergonomic tools
Doctors might recommend wrist braces and ergonomic tools to help manage carpal tunnel syndrome, especially in the early stages. Wrist braces keep your wrist stable and ease pressure on the median nerve. Ergonomic tools, like specially designed keyboards and mice, help with better wrist positioning and reduce strain on your hands and wrists.
However, the effectiveness of these tools may vary depending on the severity of the condition and individual factors.
Anti-inflammatory foods
Studies suggest that diet can help manage carpal tunnel syndrome. According to Dr Chakraborty, a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fatty fish, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms.
A study published in the journal Biomedicines suggests the Mediterranean diet is also linked to a reduction in inflammation and a lower risk of chronic diseases. It includes foods rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats, which again could be beneficial for people with carpal tunnel syndrome. However, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before making any dietary changes.
Conclusion
While carpal tunnel syndrome can be a debilitating condition, it can be cured and treated with or without surgery, depending on individual circumstances. The key is to consult a doctor and discuss all your treatment options. Although paying attention to your diet, exercising under expert supervision, and investing in wristbands can help, maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep can also improve your symptoms.