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Perhaps from time to time you experience itching and slight pain in the area of the wrist, which is accompanied by a feeling of weakness in the hand,- like you've lost control of her. These symptoms do not occur in all people, but if you encounter them, and even more so if they become chronic, it is very unpleasant, because you cannot use your hand to the fullest, and sooner or later the pain becomes unbearable. Today we will talk about syndrome carpal tunnel .

What can you do if you are among those unfortunate who experience these symptoms? Is surgery the only way out? Is there no remedy, no medicine to get rid of this disease?

Traditional medicine, as a rule, likes to treat any anatomical disease with the help of surgeons. If some part of the engine breaks down in the car, then mechanics these days ask the manufacturer new part and change it. It seems that there are no good mechanics anymore, except for specialists in parts replacement. It seems, alas, that a similar situation is developing in medicine.

But maybe there is another way? We will try to explain the causes, symptoms and treatment options (both "conventional" and alternative) of this unpleasant disease.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

The carpal (aka carpathian) canal is a narrow space in the wrist through which the flexor tendons of the fingers and the median nerve pass, one of the most important parts arms. The canal is already very narrow, but for a number of reasons it can narrow even more, which will lead to pinching of the nerve. The pinched nerve will not be able to function fully.

Pressure on the median nerve leads to a change in the sensitivity of the hand and the loss of the ability to move it. This may be expressed in a sensation of itching, or maybe in a sensation enough severe pain . Simultaneously with pain or itching, weakness appears, and a sick person cannot control his hand, primarily with his thumb and forefinger.

This is due to the fact that the muscles do not receive the necessary impulses from the median nerve. Over time, muscles can “unlearn” how to move. and the handshake of a person suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome will become very weak.

The reasons

We have already said that the place where the median nerve connects to the hand is called the carpal tunnel. This channel is very narrow and due to the slightest inflammation the nerve may be pinched. When a nerve is pinched, you feel pain, itching, numbness, or weakness. This is carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome usually affects people between the ages of 30 and 60, with men experiencing the condition more often than women. It also happens that a person has a very narrow carpal tunnel from birth - in this case, the syndrome will most likely develop over time.

Some believe that regular repetition of the same movements leads to arm pain, but this is not necessarily true - although some repetitive movements should still be avoided. It is absolutely known that permanent use vibrating tools increases the risk of acquiring the syndrome - for example, it affects workers breaking concrete with a jackhammer.

At the same time, there are no convincing studies proving that carpal tunnel syndrome is associated with working at a computer (both with a keyboard and a mouse), playing on musical instruments or any sport.

The risk of acquiring carpal tunnel syndrome is increased by:

Repeated fractures and arthrosis
Cysts or tumors in the wrist
Rheumatoid arthritis ( autoimmune disease affecting the joints)
Hypothyroidism
Obesity and alcoholism
Fluid retention in the body (during pregnancy or menopause)

However, most often syndrome occurs idiopathically, that is, the cause of its appearance is unknown, and treatment is reduced to eliminating the symptoms, and not the disease itself.

Symptoms

Clumsiness when trying to grasp something with fingers or hand
Numbness or itching in the thumb or three fingers nearby (index, middle, ring)
Constant itching in the palm
Difficulty picking up a bag, weakness when trying to hold onto something (this is a very common complaint)
Pain from wrist to elbow
Pain in the hands or wrist
Finger motility problems
Weakness of one or both arms
Muscle atrophy at the base thumb(this happens in advanced cases)

How do you know when it's time to go to the doctor?

To do not confuse the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome with the symptoms of arthritis you should see a doctor if:

your arm constantly hurts, and the pain only increases, even if you don’t strain it at all all day;
when the brush moves, there is a feeling that something creaks or crackles inside.

After making sure that you are not suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, you can choose suitable treatment depending on the severity of the disease.

Diagnostics

For staging accurate diagnosis the doctor may use the Phalen test or the Tinel test.

Tinel test: tapping (percussion) on the place where the median nerve passes in the wrist, if present, leads to pain in the palm
Phalen test: maximum flexion of the hand for a minute in the syndrome causes itching, numbness or weakness

The most common tests to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome are:

X-ray of the wrist. It shows if there is a narrowing of the channel in those places where the median nerve passes.
Electromyography. This method explores electrical activity skeletal muscles.
Measurement nerve conduction velocities.

The results of the last two studies will definitely deviate from the norm if you use the Phalen and Tinel tests to find that you have carpal tunnel syndrome.

Treatment Options

Try wearing it at night for a few weeks wristband with rigid tire so that the hand does not move. If that doesn't work, try wearing it during the day too for at least a month. Try not to put your hands under your head while you sleep and put cold compresses on your wrist.

Medications

Used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen. Can relieve pain for a while corticosteroid injections.

Surgical intervention

Release of the median nerve- this is surgical procedure, at which the transverse ligament is dissected (it is she who presses on the nerve). Surgery usually helps, but not in all cases, and recovery from the procedure can take several months.

Surgery is required in more than half of the cases, but occasionally conventional treatment relieves symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

How to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome?

To reduce the load on the wrist, you need to slightly change your workplace and home life.

Maintain the correct posture

During rest your hands should be relaxed, and the brushes should not bend. Try to avoid repetitive movements that involve the wrist.
The computer screen should be at eye level. The keyboard must be positioned low enough. so that the brushes do not bend when working on the computer.
try do not pick up things with three fingers- it increases the load on the wrist. Use your entire brush. If at work you need to constantly take something, clamp or unscrew, constantly change hands and give them a minute or two to rest.

Watch your position while you sleep

When you fall asleep, your arms should be close to your body, and your wrists should neither flex nor extend. The hands should not be under the body or head - this leads to pressure and, as a result, pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome.

Use ergonomic things

Don't neglect well-designed items, as they will help reduce the risk of wrist injury. These include computer accessories such as a mouse pad or keyboard drawer. Do not forget to take a break from working at the computer from time to time, especially if your hands hurt.

Wrist and Hand Exercises

These exercises will help you improve circulation and relieve tension.

Wrist circles. Place your hands palms down and rotate them first five times in left side, and then five more times to the right.
Thumb stretch. Straighten your palm, take your right thumb with your left hand and pull it out and then back. Hold your finger in this position for 10 seconds. Repeat the exercise five times with the thumbs of both hands.
Extend all five fingers. Straighten your palm and stick out your fingers. Stay in this position for 10 minutes. Repeat the exercise 3-5 times.
Flexion and extension. Take a rubber ball and squeeze it 10 times. Then straighten your palm and repeat the exercise with the other hand.

It is possible that some exercises will not be enough for you: in some cases, you need to change your lifestyle, both in terms of work and in terms of rest. Some professions require you to constantly hold vibrating tools in your hands, and this is very harmful to the wrist.

Home Remedies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Folk remedies are aimed at relieving inflammation and thereby alleviating the pain that causes carpal tunnel syndrome.

Hypericum infusion: take three leaves of St. John's wort, pour a glass of water and boil for 10 minutes. Drink at least one cup of the infusion daily to relieve the pain and itching caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. In addition, this drink has a calming effect, thanks to which you will better cope with pain. And this will destroy vicious circle when the pain causes negative emotions which in turn worsen the pain.
Linseed oil: take one spoon per day for 2-4 weeks. Recent studies have shown that fatty acids found in linseed oil help relieve inflammation.
B vitamins: Add B-vitamin-rich foods to your diet. These include potatoes, rice, bananas, green vegetables, and chicken breast. If you prefer to get vitamins from pills, then remember that daily allowance for B vitamins, this is 2 milligrams.
Ice compresses on the wrist or hand: Cold resists inflammation and relieves pain. In no case do not use hot compresses for carpal tunnel syndrome so they will only make things worse.

And, of course, all means that contribute to normal will help with carpal tunnel syndrome, not to mention about proper nutrition and regular charging - indispensable components healthy lifestyle life.

If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome usually does not lead to complications. However, if left untreated, then median nerve can be permanently damaged.

Be that as it may, do not forget that surgery (which your surgeon will certainly insist on) is not always best solution, and the consequences of the operation can be worse than the disease itself. Before contacting a surgeon, do everything in your power and follow the instructions from our article. If natural remedies do not help, then do not hesitate to visit a doctor.

Tunnel syndrome (compression-ischemic neuropathy) is a complex of diseases peripheral nerves due to malnutrition nerve fibers, leading to decreased sensitivity in problem area. This condition manifests itself in the upper and lower limbs. When choosing a treatment, it is important not only to establish the localization of compression-ischemic neuropathy, but also to differentiate this condition from other pathologies.

Manifestations of tunnel neuropathy

The nature of the manifestations of tunnel syndromes upper limbs determined by the localization of the processes that caused the damage nerve cells. On this basis, the following forms of neuropathy are distinguished:

round pronator syndrome;
tunnels ulnar nerve;
tunnels of the radial nerve.

In most cases, the defeat of these nerves provokes a violation of the work of the hand and fingers.

Compression of the nerves of the upper extremities

One of the most common (diagnosed in 50% of cases) is the carpal tunnel syndrome. The risk zone for the development of this type of neuropathy includes women over 50 years old and people who constantly experience stress on the upper limbs.

The median nerve, the compression of which provokes the appearance of carpal tunnel syndrome, runs along the palm. This channel transmits impulses responsible for the sensitivity of the first three fingers of the hand. In addition, the median nerve is responsible for their mobility.

The development of carpal syndrome begins with a violation of sensitivity, which is observed after a long load on the limb. At rest, pain and other symptoms characteristic of tunnel neuropathy disappear. Later, clinical phenomena disturb constantly.

After limb numbness and pain acquire chronic, arise movement disorders. In the absence of adequate therapy wrist muscles atrophy. In advanced cases tunnel syndrome brush extends to the shoulder joint.

important diagnostic sign neuropathy affecting the carpal tunnel is that the intensity pain more pronounced at night than during the day.

It is characterized by compression of the nerve located in the so-called Guyon's bed. In this part of the upper limb there are fibers that are responsible for sensitivity and motor activity all fingers of the hand.

The following symptoms indicate ulnar syndrome:

intense pain of a burning nature;
paresthesia (tingling, feeling of "goosebumps");
decreased mobility;
deterioration in fine motor skills.

These symptoms appear predominantly in the little finger and ring finger. As compression progresses, muscle fibers atrophy.

The development of cubital tunnel syndrome is accompanied by compression of the channels that run through the supramuscular-ulnar groove. This type of neuropathy is also considered one of the most common. With cubital syndrome clinical picture similar to the manifestations of compression of the nerve of the ulnar canal. However, numbness and pain in this case occur when the patient long time keeps the arm folded. In addition, there may be pain on the back of the hand.

lying in armpit, is characterized by a violation motor function brushes. With such a violation, there are also problems with abduction of the thumb and flexion of the rest. Developing in the area elbow joint, radiation syndrome can cause a decrease in sensitivity on the back of the shoulder.

Compression of the nerves of the lower extremities

In addition to the above, there are other tunnel syndromes that affect the lower limbs or muscle beds. The latter type of violation is extremely rare. Tunnel syndrome of muscle beds occurs due to problems with blood circulation in certain areas. Such a lesion is localized mainly on the lower extremities and manifests itself in the form of the following symptoms:

intense pain;
reddening of the place of compression;
swelling of the problem area;
muscle paralysis;
decreased sensitivity or complete numbness in the interdigital space of the foot;
decrease in motor activity.

Among the tunnel syndromes of the lower extremities, the following are most common:

Roth's disease;
femoral nerve;
sciatic nerve;
peroneal nerve;
tarsal syndrome.

Roth's disease develops due to compression of a nerve that lies in subcutaneous layer hips. The tunnel syndrome that has arisen in this area provokes pain, a feeling of "goosebumps" and tingling in the problem area. The intensity of symptoms increases during movement.

The tunnel syndrome of the femoral nerve manifests itself in a similar way. The difference lies in the fact that in this case, pain and paresthesia are localized in the perineum, on the legs and feet. In the future, there is a decrease in sensitivity and weakness of muscle fibers, which atrophy over time.

With neuropathy of the sciatic nerve, there are burning pains, which are localized in the lower leg and foot in right leg. Numbness, paresthesia, and decreased Achilles reflex are also possible.

Tunnel (fibular) syndrome is characterized by a deterioration in mobility (flexion dysfunction) of the foot and fingers. In the problem area, the sensitivity of the skin is reduced. Pain in this neuropathy is localized near the fibula.

Tarsal syndrome develops when the tarsal canal (located near the ankle) is compressed. The main symptom of this form neuropathy - pain in the foot, occurring mainly at night. As compression develops, discomfort worries while driving.

The reasons

The causes of the development of carpal tunnel syndrome are often caused by traumatization of soft and bone tissues in the area where the nerves lie: fractures, bruises, prolonged wear plaster and more. Certain types lead to similar violations. labor activity. Carpal tunnel syndrome is often diagnosed in miners, musicians, loaders. In this case, the compression of the nerve is noted only on one side (for left-handers on the left hand, for right-handers - on the right).

To the number possible causes development of neuropathy include:

A relationship has been established between neuropathy and hereditary predisposition, characterized by the narrowness of the channels. Tunnel syndromes develop due to congenital anomalies structure of the lower or upper limbs. Can lead to nerve compression medical procedures. Frequent intravenous or intramuscular injections produced in the same area, provoke swelling of local tissues, due to which the channels are compressed.

The risk group for developing neuropathy includes people who adhere to strict diet. Flaw nutrients leads to a decrease in subcutaneous tissue, which performs a shock-absorbing function, protects the nerve channels and bones from shock.

In addition, systemic diseases contribute to the development of tunnel syndromes: diabetes, kidney failure, arthritis, blood pathology.

Main symptoms

With carpal tunnel syndrome, the symptoms are mainly manifested in the form of pain. varying degrees intensity and paresthesia. The feeling of discomfort becomes most pronounced at night or after physical exertion.

As compression-ischemic neuropathy develops, the intensity general symptoms is growing. The pain acquires a burning character or manifests itself in the form of an electrical “shoot through”. This symptom is due to both compression of the nerve channels and the course inflammatory process. In advanced cases, pain occurs due to muscle spasm.

Also, with tunnel syndromes, there is a decrease in the motor activity of the fingers, hands, feet (depending on the localization of neuropathy). Over time, there is numbness in the problem area and atrophy of muscle tissue. In the case of compression of the arteries, the skin turns pale, the body temperature in the affected area decreases, and edema occurs.

Diagnostics

Tunnel neuropathy is diagnosed based on the collection of information about the patient's condition. With the defeat of the channel, which lies in the upper limbs, there are characteristic clinical phenomena. But in case of compression of the nerves in the legs, an additional examination is required.

Canal compression can be diagnosed with specialized tests that assess the motor activity of the limbs and the changes that occur. Electroneuromyography is also prescribed (the speed of passage of an impulse along the nerves is analyzed).

When selecting treatment tactics, the pathologies that provoked compression are taken into account. During the diagnosis of diseases that caused the syndrome tunnel channel, ultrasound, MRI, CT and other techniques are used.

Treatment

In the treatment of compression-ischemic neuropathy, a set of measures is used to restore the function of the damaged nerve and eliminate symptoms. For this use medications, special exercises, methods of physiotherapy and surgical intervention.

Medical therapy

Since it is necessary to treat nerve compression for a sufficiently long period of time, the patient needs to limit the motor activity of the injured limb for the allotted time.

Due to the fact that tunnel neuropathy provokes pain, on initial stage therapy is prescribed:

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Drugs are used for carpal tunnel syndrome in the treatment concomitant diseases. AT this case"Diclofenac", "Ibuprofen" and other medicines that suppress inflammation are prescribed.
Analgesics. They also help reduce the intensity of pain.
Anticonvulsants, antidepressants. Appointed in special occasions when pain occurs against the background of neuropathic changes.

Depending on the characteristics of the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, medical therapy may be supplemented with injections of an anesthetic (novocaine) and hormones or hydrocortisone. This approach is used for intense pain, which is not able to cope with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs.

In addition, in the composition drug therapy administer other drugs that stop comorbidities(edema, decreased tissue trophism), as well as eliminating diseases that caused compression.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy methods usually complement the medical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. With compression-ischemic neuropathy, the following are indicated:

phonophoresis with dimexide;
electrophoresis;
cryotherapy;
fluctuation.

If necessary, other procedures are prescribed that improve trophism (darsalization, massage) and stimulate tissue repair (ultrasound, mud therapy).

Treatment with folk remedies and exercise therapy

Treat carpal tunnel syndrome folk remedies you can if they are approved by a doctor. It is almost impossible to get rid of neuropathy on your own, especially in advanced cases. At home, the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome is carried out using decoctions from:

These decoctions have a decongestant effect. To reduce the intensity of pain, alcohol compresses are used (alcohol is diluted with water in a ratio of 1: 2) and birch bud tincture (a tablespoon of buds is mixed with 500 ml), which is rubbed into the problem area.

If carpal tunnel develops during pregnancy, treatment is not always required. Neuropathy often disappears within a few months after childbirth.

The list of exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome is selected taking into account the localization of the compressed nerve. If the carpal tunnel is affected, it is recommended to periodically squeeze a rubber ball in your hands or press thumb to others. Gymnastics with tunnel syndrome will not get rid of disorders, but reduces the intensity of general symptoms.

Surgery

Compressive neuropathy is usually treated with medication and physical therapy.

Surgical intervention will be required when the bones are pressing on the nerve or a narrow channel is identified. In both situations, methods of reconstructive therapy are used.

Prevention

Prevention of carpal tunnel syndrome involves reducing the load on the hands and lower limbs. It is also important to avoid trauma to soft tissues, to treat inflammatory and other diseases that provoke neuropathy in a timely manner. In addition, it is important to exclude the influence of provoking factors. If necessary, it is recommended to surgical operation to expand the nerve canal.

With tunnel syndromes, pain of varying degrees of intensity occurs and sensitivity in the upper or lower extremities decreases. The appearance of neuropathy is due to compression of the nerve channels caused by fractures, bruises or inflammatory diseases.

Tunnel syndrome is one of the diseases of our time. This ailment is neurological in nature. More than thirty varieties of such a disease are described in medical writings. In each case, a specific area of the body is affected, for example, the wrist, elbow, and so on. It is important to learn to recognize the symptoms of the disease in time.

Tunnel syndrome - what is it?

This ailment occurs when there is an infringement of the median nerve. As you know, it is located in a narrow tunnel, which is formed by muscles, bone tissue and tendons. When areas close to the nerve swell, it is compressed. As a result, the transmission of impulses is disrupted. At the initial stage, carpal tunnel syndrome worries only from time to time. However, when the disease is reborn into a more serious form, even the most elementary actions are difficult. From this pathological condition no one dies, but it makes life very difficult.

carpal tunnel syndrome

This disease affects the carpal tunnel. It occurs as a result of compression of the median nerve by the carpal ligaments during repeated flexion-extension of the hands. More often this disease is diagnosed in women. Women have much thinner wrists. In addition, with age, serious problems begin in their body. hormonal changes. All this serves favorable factor to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

There are also several groups of professions in which this disease is diagnosed more often than usual. Tunnel syndrome threatens people engaged in this type of activity:

musicians;
artists;
programmers;
gamers and enthusiastic PC users;
cashiers;
production workers performing monotonous monotonous hand movements.

Cubital tunnel syndrome

This is a compression neuropathy of the ulnar nerve. In fact, this is ischemia of the "process". The nerve is compressed, its blood supply is disrupted, which causes degradation of this area with all the ensuing consequences. Ulnar tunnel syndrome has the same mechanism of development as carpal, tarsal or radial. Such orthopedic pathology differs only in localization.

Tunnel syndrome - causes

There are a number of factors that contribute to the development this disease. More often, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs for the following reasons:

long work at the computer (implies the use of the keyboard and mouse);
arthritis and other rheumatic diseases causing damage to the joints;
bruises, dislocations, fractures and other injuries;
tendovaginitis and other joint inflammations;
pathology in the work of the kidneys, thyroid gland and other diseases that provoke the accumulation of fluid in the body;
diabetes;
obesity;
alcohol abuse;
amyloidosis;
pregnancy and other diseases that provoke hormonal changes;
hypothermia;
smoking;
genetic predisposition.

Tunnel syndrome - symptoms

This ailment can proceed in a special way in each case. More often, carpal syndrome can have the following clinical picture:

numbness of the fingers, which appears after sleep or sudden movements;
paresthesia (there is a feeling of crawling, unpleasant tingling, burning, and so on);
pain in the fingers, radiating to the forearm or elbow joint;
clumsiness - objects fall out of the hands, it is difficult to write or print something;
decreased sensitivity in the area of the affected area;
change in temperature of the palms, darkening of the nails.

In addition, the tunnel syndrome, depending on the localization, can be one- or two-sided. More often, the disease affects the prevailing limb. If the patient is right-handed, then he suffers right hand, and left-handed - left. However, when orthopedic pathology occurs during the period of bearing a child or due to hormonal failure in the body, both limbs can be affected by the disease.

How to treat carpal tunnel syndrome?

Before prescribing therapy, the doctor will full examination. This procedure will allow you to make an accurate diagnosis. If the doctor suspected carpal tunnel syndrome in the patient who applied, he will definitely study the symptoms of it, as well as perform other manipulations. To make a diagnosis, the following provocative tests are carried out:

Phalen test- you need to bend the brush as much as possible. A minute later, a tingling sensation will appear. The earlier these start unpleasant symptoms, the more severe the stage of the disease.
Tinel test- you need to tap on the area with the affected nerve. If the patient has carpal tunnel syndrome, tingling, numbness, and pain will occur.
Durkan test- squeeze the brush and wait about half a minute. If there is an orthopedic pathology, the fingers become numb and tingling is felt.

Tunnel syndrome treatment provides for a complex, but before prescribing it, the patient is recommended to undergo the following procedures:

electroneuromyography;
radiography;

How to treat carpal tunnel syndrome?

Therapy of this disease is aimed at minimizing the inflammatory process and eliminating puffiness in the affected area. In addition, treatment should relieve pain. In the fight against a lesion, drug, non-drug and surgical methods. The first two methods are effective on initial stage ailment. If the disease has acquired a protracted form, without surgical intervention not enough.

Conservative therapy involves the appointment of such drugs:

anti-inflammatory nonsteroidal drugs(Movalis, Diclofenac);
diuretics (Veroshpiron or Furosemide);
B vitamins;
corticosteroids (hydrocortisone, prednisolone);
vasodilators (Trental);
muscle relaxants (Mydocalm).

If carpal tunnel syndrome is confirmed during the diagnosis, home treatment can be carried out with the help of drugs prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication is not allowed! The doctor must monitor the patient's condition at all stages of treatment. However, there are a number of criteria that indicate that conservative therapy for the patient will be ineffective. These factors include:

if the applicant is over 50 years old;
the patient complains of constant tingling of the hands;
symptoms of the disease appear for about a year.

Ulnar tunnel syndrome - treatment

The therapy for this disease is similar to that used in the fight against the carpal type of disease. In addition to medical treatment, physiotherapy procedures can also be prescribed. If tunnel tunnel syndrome of the elbow joint is diagnosed, simultaneously with medicines such manipulations are prescribed:

Ultraphonophoresis- during the procedure, vasodilation occurs and blood flow in the capillaries increases. It is recommended to go through 10-12 sessions.
shock wave therapy- aims to reduce pain and improve blood circulation. In addition, after such a procedure, metabolism is restored and cells are renewed. The therapeutic course is represented by 5-7 procedures.

Exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome

They are effective prophylactic. Moreover, they can be used as additional method fight against illness. When carpal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed, exercises can be done as follows:

With interlaced fingers, it is necessary to perform squeezing movements.
It is necessary to shake relaxed hands in the air.
Raised hands should be clenched into fists and unclenched.
It is necessary to press the elbows to the sides, squeeze and unclench the fingers.

Kinesio taping for carpal tunnel syndrome

This correction has a number of features. It does not cause anxiety or discomfort in the patient. Tunnel syndrome of the hand involves the use of cotton-based teips. They have a high therapeutic effect. Tapes prevent the evaporation of moisture and enhance other simultaneous healing procedures. These include massage, physiotherapy, drug manipulation and so on.

Tunnel syndrome - ointment

Local manipulations will help to strengthen the effect of the pills. Especially good result gives the use of ointments. When carpal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed, treatment can be carried out with the help of such drugs intended for external use:

Voltaren;
Diclofenac;
Clodifen;
Rapten.

Tunnel syndrome - blockade

In the treatment of the disease, injections are very effective. Carpal syndrome of the wrist treatment provides in the form of a blockade with such drugs:

Neurobion;
Milgamma;
Neurorubin;
Naklofen;
Mydocalm;
Trental.

Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome with folk remedies

In the treatment of the disease, non-drug agents can also be used simultaneously with medication. These include such "drugs":

decoctions;
infusions;
tinctures and so on.

How to treat carpal tunnel syndrome with lingonberry leaves?

Ingredients:

water - 250 ml;
dry raw materials - 1 teaspoon.

Preparation, application:

Lingonberry leaves are poured with water and put on the stove.
Bring the composition to a boil and, reducing the heat to low, cook for a quarter of an hour.
Cool the broth and filter.
It should be taken in small sips 4-5 times a day. This drug perfectly relieves pain and reduces swelling.

Carpal tunnel syndrome - treatment with an oil-pepper compress

Ingredients:

chopped chili pepper - 50 g;
vegetable oil - 500 ml.

Preparation, application:

The ingredients are combined and the mixture is sent to the stove.
Cook the composition on a low-power fire for half an hour, stirring occasionally.
The finished product is cooled.
The medicinal composition is rubbed into the affected area.

Tunnel syndrome - surgery

The goal of surgery is to relieve pressure on the median nerve. When in advanced stage is carpal tunnel syndrome, treatment conservative methods in this case is ineffective. Instead, the patient may be offered surgery. Surgery is performed under local anesthesia. Tunnel syndrome is operated on in two ways:

Open method - an incision is made on the wrist. Its length is 5 cm. During such an operation, the ligaments that compress the nerve are cut.
method using an endoscope. During this operation, two small incisions (each 1.5 cm) are made on the affected area. An endoscope is inserted into the first, and into the second - surgical instrument, with the help of which the ligaments are dissected.

After surgery, the operated area is superimposed for a month gypsum bandage. During the recovery period, physiotherapy and physiotherapy. After 3 months, the functionality of the brush is restored by 80%, and after 6 months - completely. The patient may be advised to change jobs for six months or a year. However, after full recovery he can return to his usual activities.

Tunnel Syndrome - the most modern methods treatments - Weight Loss Magazine website

And we also have

The carpal tunnel is located on the palmar side of the hand at the junction of the forearm to the hand and is formed by the bones of the wrist on one side and the transverse carpal ligament on the other.

The tendons of the flexor muscles of the fingers and the median nerve pass through the carpal tunnel.

When the contents of the carpal tunnel are compressed, the median nerve, which is the least resistant to damage compared to the tendons, first of all suffers. Therefore, neurological symptoms come to the fore.

carpal tunnel syndrome- one of the types of tunnel neuropathies (nerve diseases), in which peripheral nerves are damaged as a result of prolonged squeezing and their constant traumatization in the musculoskeletal canals by chronically inflamed surrounding tissues.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is also known as carpal tunnel syndrome or carpal tunnel syndrome.

Causes of the disease

The reasons that can cause the development of carpal tunnel syndrome are varied:

Swelling of tissues as a result of injury to the forearm and hand (fractures, dislocations, bruises);
Tissue edema in pregnant women, especially on later dates pregnancy, and in women taking oral contraceptives;
Chronic inflammation and swelling of the structures of the carpal tunnel with constant occupational trauma (similar repetitive flexion-extension movements with constant tension of the hands, work associated with constant vibration);
Tissue edema as a result of a number of diseases internal organs(kidney failure) endocrine diseases(decreased thyroid function, early period menopause, condition after removal of the ovaries, diabetes mellitus);
Narrowing of synovial sheaths (sheaths) of tendons and thickening of their walls as a result of acute or chronic inflammation at systemic diseases connective tissue(rheumatism,), metabolic disorders(), with tuberculosis;
The discrepancy between the size of the canal and the size of its contents as a result of genetically inherited characteristics (square wrist, thick transverse ligament, narrower canal in women, etc.), or pathological growth of the bones of the hand and wrist (acromegaly);
tumor of the median nerve;
There is an observation that the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is more often made in the cold season, which proves the role of cold and hypothermia in the development of this disease.

Symptoms

At the onset of the disease, there are sensations of tingling, burning and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and less often ring fingers. The pain is most often dull, aching, can spread to the hand and forearm, is felt in deep tissues arms. Often there is numbness of the skin of the hand and fingers in the morning immediately after waking up, which is accompanied by a decrease or loss of pain sensitivity.

First, sensitivity is lost on the palmar surface of the index and middle fingers, over time, numbness captures the palmar surfaces of the thumb and ring fingers. The feeling of numbness usually goes away within a few hours after waking up.

Pain, numbness, and tingling usually go away when you put your hand down and move your fingers lightly. But after a while, the symptoms reappear.

As the disease progresses, motor disorders appear: it becomes difficult for the patient to hold small objects in his fingers, inaccuracy of movements appears, objects can periodically fall out of the hands against the will of the person, the force of grasping objects with a brush with the participation of the thumb decreases.

Often there are symptoms of impaired microcirculation of the diseased hand in the form of blanching of the skin or the appearance of a bluish tint due to vasospasm, coldness of the skin of the fingers to the touch, impaired sweating (increased or vice versa decreased sweating). As a result of constant vasospasm, the nutrition of the skin and nails is disrupted, with a significant deterioration in their appearance.

Diagnostics

Diagnostic tests and electromyography are used to confirm the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Diagnostic tests

Flexion and extension test. The arm is held in the position of maximum flexion or extension for 1 minute. In carpal tunnel syndrome, during this time, tingling appears in the skin of the thumb, index and middle fingers.
Tinnel test. Light tapping on the carpal tunnel causes tingling and pain in the fingers. The Tinnel test is positive, usually with severe disease.

Electromyography studies the ability of muscles to contract under the influence of electrical impulses. Allows you to confirm the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome or suspect another cause of median nerve disease other than carpal tunnel compression.

Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome

The stage of the disease and the predominant symptoms determine how to treat carpal tunnel syndrome, which techniques are preferred in a particular patient, and whether surgery can be avoided.

Conservative (without surgery) treatment:

Restriction of movements in the diseased hand for a long time up to the imposition of a splint on the wrist or a plaster splint;
Medications:
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain;
- dehydrating action (removing water from the body), namely diuretic drugs to relieve edema;
- the introduction of glucocorticoids into the carpal tunnel to locally reduce tissue edema and relieve inflammation;
- drugs that improve blood circulation through the vessels to restore the blood supply to the tissues of the diseased hand and restore the function of the median nerve.
Physiotherapy treatment: permanent magnetic field, acupuncture to improve metabolic processes in damaged tissues.

Surgical treatment is used in case of ineffectiveness of conservative and consists in dissection of the transverse ligament of the wrist. The operation is performed under local anesthesia. The transection of the transverse ligament of the wrist allows you to relieve pressure on the flexor tendons of the fingers and the median nerve, restore normal blood supply to the tissues of the hand.

After the operation, the diseased arm is immobilized with a plaster splint for 10-12 days. AT postoperative period the patient is assigned physiotherapy, massage, thermal treatments, vitamins of group B. The function of the hand and the patient's ability to work are fully restored 4-5 weeks after the operation.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a pathology that needs to be urgently eliminated. The disease causes discomfort discomfort and puffiness. There are many methods conservative therapy, which will help to cope with the disease. AT severe cases surgical intervention is applied.

Why does the disease occur?

The causes of carpal tunnel syndrome are related to nerve compression. Most often this occurs as a result of swelling and sprains that occur against the background of previously received injuries. People working on a computer often have microdamages. This is due to the repetition of the same manipulations. This category includes people working in construction, because constant chronic impact on the wrist leads to microcracks.

The causes of the development of the disease include pathologies and certain conditions of the body, as a result of which there is a failure in the metabolic process and the development of puffiness (diabetes mellitus, pregnancy, arthritis, gout, bone outgrowths). Other prerequisites for the disease include:

the formation of tumors of the nerve that passes through the canal;
circulatory disorders due to smoking;
overweight.

Pathology can affect 1 or 2 hands, it depends on the level of static load on the muscles.

Recently, young people who work a lot at the computer have faced the disease. Even constant slight pressure on the hand can lead to nerve damage.

Clinical manifestations of pathology and its diagnosis

Wrist syndrome is characterized by numbness of the fingers (this occurs at night). There are other symptoms of the disease. These include discomfort in the affected area, tingling and the appearance of "goosebumps" on the body. Another symptom of the disease is weakness in the hands.

Against this background, muscle damage occurs, which leads to fatigue, atrophy and other movement disorders. Sometimes the pain syndrome passes to other parts of the upper limbs (shoulders, forearm and neck).

Which doctor should I contact to confirm the diagnosis? This can be done by a surgeon or traumatologist by conducting special tests. The most commonly used is the Tinel method. To do this, the doctor will begin to tap on a specific area on the wrist, and if the patient feels pain in the fingers, then this is a sign of pathology. The Durkan method is also used. The wrist is compressed and unpleasant sensations are felt in the phalanges. Diagnosis of the disease is carried out by an opposition test, shaking fingers and an electrical device.

Sometimes the pathology requires a differential study to check if it is associated with arthritis, diabetic polyneuropathy or cervical radiculopathy. Only after confirming the diagnosis is it allowed to proceed with the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Conservative therapies and physiotherapy

Carpal tunnel syndrome should be treated with cold compresses and less stress on the arm. The affected wrist will need to be fixed with splints or other special devices.

Early diagnosis of the disease allows treatment without surgery. For therapy are prescribed:

Drugs of the NVPS group. The most commonly used are Nimesulide, Ibuprofen, Nimez or Analgin. Means help to relieve swelling and get rid of pain.
Corticosteroids. Treatment hormonal drugs aimed at relieving pressure on the affected nerve. Most often, drugs are prescribed in the form of injections, because injections must be done into the median canal. Such therapy is considered more effective.

Vitamin B6 is attributed to some patients, since it has an anti-inflammatory effect, relieves swelling and pain. Medical treatment should be appointed an experienced specialist, his the main task blockade and elimination of unpleasant symptoms.

The disease can be treated with physiological methods. Most often recommended:

transcranial electroanalgesia;
introduction medicinal electrophoresis with anesthetics and analgesics;
cryotherapy at the local level;
fluctuating.

Physiotherapy is also carried out with the help of high-frequency exposure to magnetic waves, vibration therapy and special massage. To improve regeneration processes nervous tissue recommend laser and ultrasonic radiation, mud wraps and ozokerite compresses. Neuroelectric stimulation is used to normalize neuromuscular transmission.

To eliminate carpal tunnel syndrome, you can use a special for the hands. Compression helps a lot. rubber ball for 5–10 minutes. It is necessary to bend and unbend the hands of the upper limbs 10 times. Fingers can be clenched into a fist and rotated clockwise and counterclockwise. The duration of manipulations is 1-2 minutes. By using integrated approach therapy will be able to cope with the disease without adverse consequences.

Surgical intervention

In severe cases it may be necessary surgical treatment tunnel syndrome wrist joint. Before the procedure, the patient should consult with a specialist, then pass general analysis blood, undergo a nerve conduction study. A prerequisite is an electromyogram and MRI.

Approximately 7 days in advance, the patient needs to stop using certain medicines. These drugs include Aspirin and other medicines with anti-inflammatory effects, as well as Warfin and Clopidogrel. In the evening on the eve of the scheduled surgical procedures, it is better to eat light food, and before the procedure you can not drink anything.

The operation is performed under general or local anesthesia. The doctor should prescribe the type of medication, depending on the tests and personal preferences of the patient. Surgery can be performed in 2 ways:

Open technology. To do this, a small incision is made in the lower palm and wrist. The ligaments will be exposed, allowing the doctor to release the median nerve. At the end, the wound is sutured with stitches. The impact site is fixed with a bandage.
endoscopic method. 2 small incisions are made on the brush. A small camera and a surgical device are inserted through them. The doctor performs the necessary manipulations, removes instruments, applies stitches, and then bandages.

On average, the duration of the operation is 15-60 minutes. After surgery, rehabilitation will be required. The first days will have to be spent in the hospital under the supervision of doctors. The wrist will be fixed in an elevated position to reduce swelling and swelling. When the patient is allowed to go home after the operation, he will have to adhere to certain recommendations:

use ice for applications every day for 20 minutes;
periodically change the bandage;
do not strain your arm and do not lift a heavy load until the permission of the doctor;
you show up medical institution to remove sutures (after 7–10 days).

If, after surgical manipulations, a person feels chills, fever, redness, swelling or pain intensifies, then you should immediately consult a doctor.

After the operation, it is very important to follow the recommendations of specialists so that there are no complications.

The use of local traditional medicine

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with traditional methods.

It will be possible to cope with puffiness with the use of compresses from cabbage leaves or plantain.
A good method is to use cucumber infusion. 3 pickles need to be chopped and 3 pods of red pepper added to the mass. The components must be poured with 500 ml of vodka, put the product in a dark room for 7 days. After the specified time, strain the drug and use it to rub the affected areas.
To speed up the recovery of an inflamed wrist, you can use a remedy made from 1 tbsp. l. salt, 50 g 10% ammonia, 10 g camphor oil and 1 liter of water. The drug must be used for rubbing fingers.
deal with pain syndrome succeed with the help of sea buckthorn. Berries need to be crushed and mixed with water. Heat the mass to a temperature of 37 ° C, lower your hands into it and hold for half an hour. Before such a procedure, a relaxing massage should be done. Upon completion of the manipulations, you need to wipe the limbs and insulate with mittens. The duration of therapy is 30 days.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often treated with a gourd compress. From the fruit you need to cook porridge, apply it on the sore hand, wrap it with cling film on top and wrap it with a scarf. Such applications should be performed 1 time per day. The duration of therapy is 5–6 days.
You can rub the inflamed areas with ground black pepper, for the preparation of which 100 g of powder is poured into 1 liter vegetable oil. The mass must be put on a slow fire for 30-40 minutes. The prepared preparation is required to lubricate the affected area up to 4 times a day.

Oral folk remedies

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with drugs to internal reception. good recommendations has a decoction of lingonberries. Plant leaves (2-3 tsp) pour 250 ml of water and put on the stove for 15-20 minutes. The medicine is required to filter and take 1 tbsp. l. up to 4 times a day. There are a few more effective decoctions for the treatment of pathology:

2 tsp parsley roots pour 500 ml of boiling water and leave for 12 hours. Take the medicine throughout the day.
2–3 tbsp. l. birch leaves brew 1 cup boiling water and put on medium heat for 3 hours. It is necessary to take the drug in 60 ml before a meal.
1 st. l. bearberry leaves pour 250 ml hot water and leave for 4 hours. Use the medicine for 2 tsp. up to 5 times a day.

If timely apply for medical care, then carpal tunnel syndrome can be effectively eliminated. During the period of therapy, you must adhere to all medical recommendations.