How to Address Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when there’s increased pressure within the carpal tunnel, compressing the median nerve. Several factors contribute to this, including anatomical changes, swelling, and inflammation. Anatomical differences, such as having a smaller carpal tunnel, are significant risk factors, especially for women. Conditions like osteoarthritis, diabetes, and wrist trauma can also lead to the development of this syndrome.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and wrist. If left untreated, these symptoms can progress, causing weakness and a loss of muscle control in the hands, fingers, and thumbs.
Treatment
Nonsurgical treatments are usually the first line of defense. These include wearing a splint on the hand and wrist at night, applying ice packs, taking prescribed medications, and receiving steroid injections. While these methods can provide temporary relief, they don’t address the root cause of the syndrome. In cases where symptoms persist, surgical treatments might be necessary to ensure long-term relief by correcting the underlying nerve compression.
Occupational and Service-Related Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome is sometimes an occupational disease, particularly for those engaging in repetitive tasks with their hands. Veterans may experience this as a service-related ailment, potentially qualifying them for VA disability benefits due to their unique occupational hazards.
VA Disability Benefits
Veterans who develop carpal tunnel syndrome as a result of service-related activities might be eligible for VA disability benefits. The VA assigns disability ratings based on the symptom severity and their impact on hand function, ranging from 10% to 70%.
Management and Prevention
Managing early symptoms involves resting the hands periodically, minimizing repetitive movements, taking breaks during tasks, and using ergonomically designed tools and furniture. It’s also important to seek medical attention quickly and treat any underlying conditions like diabetes or arthritis to manage carpal tunnel syndrome effectively.