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Most people have procrastinated a time or two in life, but when it comes to our health, kicking the can down the road is not the wisest approach. This certainly applies to people suffering from symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a commonly misunderstood medical condition that affects millions of people in the United States. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke reports, "Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common neurological disorder that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist."
They further explain that sufferers, "may feel numbness, weakness, pain in your hand and wrist, and your fingers may become swollen and useless. You might wake up and feel the need to "shake out" your hand or wrist."
One of the significant challenges for those suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the misconception that it is a minor ailment, leading many to underestimate the impact untreated Carpal Tunnel Syndrome might play in their daily lives. There are many reasons why individuals could misunderstand the seriousness of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, but a clear understanding of the potential impact of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome motivates individuals to seek prompt evaluation and receive appropriate and effective treatment.
The invisible nature of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is often referred to as an invisible condition because its symptoms are not always readily apparent. Unlike a visible injury, such as a broken bone or a sprained ankle, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome manifests primarily through discomfort and tingling sensations in the hand and wrist which can't be seen by an outside observer. This hidden nature can lead individuals to downplay the condition, assuming it will resolve on its own.
Early warning signs
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome typically begins with mild symptoms, such as occasional tingling or numbness in the hand. While these symptoms often occur while a person is trying to sleep, they can also manifest with simple daily activities such as driving, typing, talking on the phone, doing their hair, or various other activities. These initial warning signs are often brushed aside, with individuals attributing them to temporary discomfort or fatigue.
The wait-and-see approach
Another reason for the underestimation of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the casual wait-and-see approach some people adopt. They hope that the discomfort will resolve without medical intervention, resorting to self-treatment measures like rest or over-the-counter pain relievers. These steps often only provide temporary relief. This temporary relief may be falsely reassuring. While mild Carpal Tunnel Syndrome poses no major risk, patients often underestimate the severity of their condition.
Risk of waiting
Ignoring Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can have consequences, some of which can be severe and irreversible and significantly impact an individual's hand function. Evaluation by a qualified specialist can facilitate confirmation of the diagnosis and help prevent these potential consequences. Risks associated with neglecting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:
- Nerve damage — As Carpal Tunnel Syndrome advances, prolonged compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel can damage the nerve causing lasting numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
- Muscle atrophy — Damage to the median nerve can cause muscle atrophy (wasting) to the muscle it activates in the thumb. This can lead to weakness and reduced function of the hand.
- Pain and discomfort — Neglected Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause ongoing and sometimes severe pain and discomfort in the affected hand and wrist, which makes it difficult to perform simple tasks or engage in hobbies and work.
- Sleep disturbances — Many individuals with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome experience symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and burning in the hand; particularly at night. These symptoms can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to sleep disturbances and, over time, sleep deprivation. Poor sleep can have a wide range of negative health effects.
Importance of early intervention
Recognizing the severity of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is essential for early intervention and effective treatment. Elite Carpal Tunnel, a Utah-based Carpal Tunnel clinic, is specifically designed to assist individuals in finding relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Dr. Travis Peterson, Elite Carpal Tunnel founder and board-certified hand surgeon, possesses comprehensive training and proficiency in the diagnosis and treatment of hand and wrist ailments.
Having aided thousands of individuals in alleviating carpal tunnel symptoms, Dr. Peterson is passionate about helping individuals suffering from these symptoms to find relief. Elite Carpal Tunnel is currently offering free consultations to those who call (801) 997-5770 or schedule online. Reference this article when scheduling to receive your free consultation.
Early treatment can halt the progression of the condition and improve the chances of a full recovery. By understanding carpal tunnel syndrome and the effects of delayed treatment, individuals can take proactive steps toward early intervention and a better quality of life. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, do not hesitate. Call Elite Carpal Tunnel to obtain the guidance needed for a swift and effective recovery.
