Carpal Tunnel syndrome is a compression of the nerve on the thumb side at the wrist. Many people experience Carpal Tunnel syndrome when positioning their wrists incorrectly, or use vibratory tools such as electric sanders and sometimes after driving long distances. Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel syndrome include pain or numbness and tingling in the thumb and index and/or middle fingers. These symptoms usually resolve by changing positions or stopping those activities.
  
If the inflammation is too great in the carpal tunnel, symptoms may continue or become constant requiring further intervention. Usually the first step is using a brace to hold the wrists in a slightly extended position (especially at night) and limiting those activities causing the numbness.
  
Therapy may include stretching exercises, Ultrasound, Heat, Ice, Electrical stimulation and activity modification.
  
If symptoms continue to persist, your physician may send you for a nerve conduction study to determine if surgical intervention may be necessary. Carpal tunnel surgery involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament in order to reduce the pressure on the nerve which is highly successful. Don't wait to seek medical attention if you have numbness or tingling of the hands, as ignoring these symptoms may lead to permanent numbness or nerve damage.

Added on 09/07/2011

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