Carpal tunnel syndrome affects a person‘s hands by putting excessive pressure on the nerves. It’s a condition that often develops as a result of overuse. For example, someone who works on a computer and types all day is at a higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome than someone who does not.
Some people believe that this condition is normal or that it isn’t very serious. Neither could be further from the truth. This is an identified medical condition, not a typical part of aging. It also can be very serious, and it could potentially make it impossible for someone to work in their chosen profession. It’s important for people to identify the condition early, so that they can take steps to mitigate the damage done.
A gradual start
Medical experts do note that symptoms are usually gradual at the beginning and get worse over time. The development of this condition often starts with numbness or a tingling sensation as nerves are affected. You can feel this in your hand or out into your fingers. The little finger is generally the least affected, although every case is unique.
This tingling and numbness can get worse as time goes by. It may sometimes feel like an electric shock. Some people find temporary relief by shaking their hands, but numbness can still set in. Eventually, someone may experience near-constant numbness or tingling in their hands.
Finally, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to weakness in the hands. This could make it harder for people to handle small objects without dropping them, for instance, and they may see a reduction in their fine motor skills. This can affect their ability to type or do other work.
When carpal tunnel syndrome becomes serious, it may require medical intervention. It’s important for workers who have been injured on the job to know what steps to take to safeguard their interests, whether they’re newly showing signs of this condition or this condition has escalated to a significant degree.
