Cts
By Stephanie Olsen, Thu Dec 8th

Carpal tunnel syndrome ("CTS") is certainly not alife-threatening condition, but it can be life-altering andshould be treated seriously.

Symptoms

Most people realize that something is amiss when they eitherwake up with (or are woken up by) pain and/or numbness in one orboth hands. Take note if the "pins and needles" extend to yourlittle finger, as your doctor will need that information to makea correct diagnosis.

Common tasks such as driving a car, sweeping, holding a book,sewing or pushing a stroller become uncomfortable or evenimpossible as the affected person is unable to grasp or to feelthe object in her hands.

Causes

Carpal tunnel syndrome is linked most often to obesity and toany repetitive motion (such as typing). Physically, it is causedwhen the wrist tunnel pinches a nerve and, left untreated, CTScan cause permanent damage. The condition does worsen over timeand some activities exacerbate the condition, so if you suspectthat you have a repetitive motion injury, don't let it go eitherundiagnosed or untreated.

Treatment

Immediate rest of the injured wrist is usually called for,keeping it in a neutral position (not flexed or extended) sothat the carpal tunnel

is unconstricted, giving the nerve asmuch room as possible. Moderate Vitamin B-6 therapy mightbe suggested, but take note that evidence of relief is anecdotaland that there are warnings of high usage linked to cancer.

Use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help alleviatesymptoms and pain, although personally I found stretching exercises and icing to beof more help.

In some cases, surgery may be the only answer, but recovery isdifficult: painful and inconvenient. A good friend of minerecalls having to get her bra fastened "for the longest time" byher husband - a minor point, perhaps, but everyday tasks canbecome quite infeasible, especially if you are a parent withyoung children at home. Speak to your doctor aboutendoscopic instead of open carpal tunnel releasein order to minimize trauma and speed convalescence.

About the author:About the Author:

Stephanie Olsen, published writer, homeschooling mother of twoand ESL teacher currently residing in Europe, is also owner ofthe expatriate site, Family Life Abroad, whereyou'll find humorous and informative articles by experiencedexpatriates on all aspects of living abroad, with lots of linksand travel tips.