Things You'll Need:
- Physician
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Step 1
Learn to detect the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Contrary to popular belief, it isn't primarily caused by overuse of desktop computers--in fact, many manual labor jobs carry a greater risk than office jobs. The major signs and symptoms include a loss of feeling in the fingers, numbness, pain, swelling or tingling of the palm, hand or wrist and the inability to grasp objects or perform quotidian tasks using your hands.
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Step 2
Get referred to a carpal tunnel specialist, if you would prefer to see one instead of your regular physician. Explain the symptoms you've been experiencing to the receptionist and request the first available appointment.
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Step 3
Have the doctor, nurse, technician or medical assistant affix an inflatable cuff tourniquet around the wrist of the hand to be tested for signs of carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Step 4
Monitor closely for any changes in sensation in the wrist of the hand being tested as the cuff is inflated. The inflation of the tourniquet will put pressure on your carpal tunnel's median nerve.
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Step 5
Tell your doctor if tingling or shock sensations well up in your carpal tunnel. This is a sign that you have carpal tunnel syndrome, and the doctor may then use further tests to detect additional physical evidence of the condition before going on to prescribe a treatment for you.
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Step 6
Remain in close communication with your doctor as you undergo treatment. If your pain, discomfort or other symptoms do not being to abate, this may be a sign of complications. Report it to your physician at once.
