Beacon Ortho: What is Carpal Tunnel and What Can You Do About it?

Hand specialist Dr. Michael D. Wigton shares some tips on how to avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Dr. Michael Wigton. Photo provided.

We have all had a stiffness or even some pain in our hands and arms if regularly typing for a long time without a break. In many instances that kind of pain may be due to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. That is a condition in which there is a compression of the median nerve that passes through the sort of “tunnel’ defined by the carpal bones in the transverse ligament in the wrist. More simply put, any repetitive motion (not just typing) or a wrist fracture can narrow the carpal tunnel, thus irritating that median nerve. The experts at Beacon Orthopedics & Sports Medicine say that in many cases, there is no single cause, but rather your body’s combined response to many factors. Those may include repetitive hand activities, trauma, diabetes, pregnancy and even the swelling and inflammation of arthritis.

Some common Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms include hand pain, tingling or numbness. Usually, patients only feel these symptoms in the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers, and the little finger is not affected. However, there are cases when the whole hand may also feel weak. Because it is a fairly common ailment, we asked a hand specialist Dr. Michael D. Wigton from Beacon for some tips on how to avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, here is what he shared:

1. Take breaks from repetitive tasks.

Whether you’re typing, playing guitar, or using a hand drill, set a timer before you start for 15 minutes. When it goes off, stop what you’re doing and wiggle your fingers. Stretch your hands and move your wrists to improve blood flow to these areas. Repeat.

2. Stretch it out.

Do quick wrist exercises while you’re standing in line at the grocery store or sitting at your desk (whether home office or onsite). For example, make a fist and then slide your fingers until they are straight again. Repeat this action five to 10 times.

3. Elevate your hands and wrists.

This may be particularly effective if your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pregnancy, fractures, or other issues with fluid retention, as opposed to repetitive motions.

If you have tried these avoidance techniques, but are still feeling the symptoms, it may be time to talk with a specialist. Beacon Orthopaedics treats local patients of all ages for various injuries and ailments – including those affecting the spine or mobility (like carpal tunnel syndrome). You can always schedule a diagnostic appointment at any one of the

area Beacon locations. If you get injured, you can readily go to one of their Saturday morning injury clinics or urgent care facilities throughout the area. Go to www.beaconortho.com or call 513-354-3700 to find a nearby Beacon location or to schedule an appointment.