Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common disorder caused by the pressure on the narrow passageway between ligaments and bones. It causes numbness, weakness, tingling, and ache in the wrist. Its symptoms are detected, especially when an individual holds some objects in their hands. Sometimes, the pain may make a person drop the item due to a lack of firm grip (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2022). When the nerves are compressed, the fingers become weak thus cannot support heavy weight or hold substances for a longer period.
How Functional or Structural Order Is Affected
CTS is caused by the pressure built in the carpal tunnel making the nerves between the bones and ligaments compress. In most cases, the disorder results from medical conditions that affect the wrist and make it swell. Some of the diseases linked to CTS include thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, retention of fluid, and hypertension. The excessive compression of the median nerve causes inflammation around the wrist (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2022). The resulting pain makes it difficult for the patient to use the hand normally.
Appropriate Treatment
To effectively treat and manage the CTS, an individual should take personal measures immediately after the symptoms are detected. The patient can engage in simple practices during the initial stages to curb the menace. First, one should restrain from all forms of activities that can enhance the disorder. Second, the victim can apply some cold packs on the affected area to lower the swelling. Lastly, it is advisable to have frequent breaks or disengage hands to allow enough time for the nerves to rest.
Other approaches to managing the condition include holding the wrist using a splint to reduce the pain and numbness when the patient is sleeping. Moreover, an individual can use Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Advil and Motrin IB to relieve the agony. Similarly, the swelling and ache can be reduced through injecting the carpal tunnel with a corticosteroid, which lowers the nerve pressure.
Reference
Mayo Clinic Staff. (2022). Carpal tunnel syndrome. Mayo Clinic. Web.