Carpal tunnel syndrome was once thought to be a common result of employment that required repetitive hand and wrist motions. At present, however, experts understand that the link between carpal tunnel syndrome and occupation is more complex. Even though work does not seem to be a primary risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome, some jobs that involve repetitive motion can exacerbate the condition. Over time, this can cause pain, which reduces a person’s quality of life. This article will delve into carpal tunnel syndrome, occupations that can exacerbate CTS and potential treatments.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve, which travels from the forearm to the hand via a passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. The meridian nerve provides sensation to the palm side of the thumb, and all fingers save the little finger. It also delivers signals to the muscles at the base of the thumb for movement, which is known as motor function. CTS can result from anything that compresses or irritates the median nerve in the carpal tunnel space.
In many cases, this disorder is the outcome of routine daily activity, which includes frequent use of vibrating hand tools, playing a musical instrument, or performing manual labour. This condition often develops slowly and progressively and may affect one or both of your hands. The early signs include numbness or tingling in your fingers, especially your index and thumb, as well as discomfort and weakness in your wrists. If left untreated, CTS can severely damage your wrist and hand, eventually leading to chronic pain or paralysis in your thumb and first three fingers.
1. Manufacturing and Industrial
Due to the repetitive nature of their jobs, factory workers, assembly line workers, packaging workers, industrial equipment operators, welders, and warehouse workers are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
2. Construction
The use of percussive or vibrating tools on a regular basis can cause carpal tunnel syndrome. Many construction professionals, including HVAC technicians, carpenters, roofers, electricians, plumbers, and heavy equipment operators, may experience worsening symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome while on the job.
3. Cleaning and Housekeeping
Facility cleaners who undertake tasks such as sweeping or polishing floors are also at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Overexertion of the wrists, which is often required to perform these tasks, contributes to inflammation within the carpal tunnel. When such activities are repeated, it can lead to ailments related to this pathology.
4. Restaurant and Food Service
Employees who handle food processing or preparation, such as chefs, waiters, bartenders, dishwashers, and others, often work in fast-paced environments that put a strain on their hands and wrists, aggravating the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
5. Beauty Industry
Cosmetologists, estheticians, and hair stylists often utilise instruments that can exacerbate the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. They are also predominantly female, and women have been found to develop carpal tunnel syndrome more frequently than men due to anatomical differences in the carpal tunnel size.
It is best to treat carpal tunnel syndrome as soon as symptoms appear. In the early stages, simple self-care measures such as taking frequent breaks, applying cold packs and avoiding activities that can worsen CTS can help alleviate the symptoms. However, conservative treatments such as splinters, medications, and surgery are more likely to be effective if you have experienced mild to moderate symptoms for less than ten months.
1. Wrist Splinting
A splint that keeps the wrist still while you sleep can help reduce tingling and numbness. Though the splint is only worn at night, it can help prevent symptoms throughout the day. If you are pregnant, nighttime splinting can be a good choice as it doesn’t require any medications to be effective.
2. Corticosteroids
To ease the pain, your healthcare practitioner may inject a corticosteroid medication, such as cortisone, into the carpal tunnel. At times, ultrasounds are used to guide these injections. Corticosteroids relieve pressure on the median nerve by reducing inflammation and swelling. In order to treat CTS, corticosteroid injections are considered to be more effective than oral corticosteroids.
3. Surgery
If symptoms are severe or do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be necessary. Carpal tunnel surgery aims to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the ligament that is causing it. Before surgery, it is best to discuss the risks and benefits related to the procedure with your surgeon. Some of the common surgery risks include incomplete ligament release, wound infections, scarring, and nerve or blood vessel injuries. During the post-operative healing phase, the ligament tissues gradually grow back while creating more space for the nerve.
Early diagnosis and prompt treatment often prevent irreparable damage to your median nerve caused by CTS. If you experience symptoms, it is advised to consult a specialist who will review your medical history and perform a thorough clinical evaluation.
The Advanced Brain and Spine Surgical Centre specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of complex neurological and spinal disorders. Whether you are experiencing symptoms of CTS or conditions such as peripheral neuropathy disease, ulnar nerve entrapment, or spinal cord compression, we are able to offer you the personalised care you need. With a committed staff and advanced technologies, we can help you regain your quality of life. Get in touch with us to schedule a consultation.
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We provide quality specialised care for neuro and spine conditions.
For enquiries, leave a message and our friendly team will get in touch with you.
Monday – Friday: 9:00AM – 5:00PM
Saturday: 9:00AM – 12:30PM
Sunday & Public Holiday: Closed
We provide quality specialised care for neuro and spine conditions.
For enquiries, leave a message and our friendly team will get in
touch with you.
Monday – Friday: 9AM – 1PM | 2PM – 5PM
Weekends & Public Holidays: CLOSED
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