How to Identify Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause severe pain in the wrists, fingers and arms. It's a medical condition caused by compression of the median nerve. In the beginning stages of the syndrome it may feel more like strain, numbness or tingling. Keep track of your pain by noting what activities cause it and when it occurs.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Describe your pain. If you have a numbness or pain in your fingers that wakes you up in the middle of the night, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. The pain or numbness may get better if you shake your hands.

2. Find out if your pain is carpal tunnel related if you have a tingling sensation in your fingers or hands. This may feel like the pins and needles sensation you get when your extremities "fall asleep."

3. Keep track of the pain level. Carpal tunnel pain feels worse at night. It may wake you up and keep you awake for long periods of time.

4. Watch for a failing grip. People with carpal tunnel syndrome often have problems holding cups and other objects that slip out of their hands.

5. Feel for pain in your forearm between your wrist and elbow. Depending on what activities bring carpal tunnel on, you may feel this pain as well.

6. Pinch something tightly between your thumb and first finger. Cases of carpal tunnel that are ongoing may cause you to lose pinching capabilities.

Tips & Warnings

• Carpal tunnel pain may be caused by a repetitive activity, but it can be felt during other activities that aren't as strenuous like lifting a cup, combing your hair or holding up a newspaper.

Who Can Help:

• Overweight? Lose 30+ lbs without pills or diets- guaranteed
• Arthroscopic Alternative to Spine Surgery- For Back & Neck - Free MRI Review by our Doctors. Get your life back!
• Do you suffer from back pain? Learn more about our Medicare approved back support system. Medicare covers 85% of the cost.