Why is there pins and needles in my hand? What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain, numbness, pins and needles or tingling in the fingers, hand or arm. This blog will provide:
Relevant anatomy
Activities that often cause it
Signs and symptoms
Relevant treatment approaches
What is the anatomy of the hand and wrist?
On the palm side of the wrist is a small tunnel. This is called the ‘carpal tunnel’. Specifically, it is made from the wrist bones on one side, and a fibrous tissue called the ‘flexor retinaculum’ on the other side. Many muscles, blood vessels and the median nerve are situated on the palm side of the forearm. Specifically, these run down the forearm, through the carpal tunnel and travel towards the front of the fingers.
If the carpal tunnel space becomes smaller, the median nerve may become compressed. This may cause pain, numbness, pins and needles or tingling in the fingers, hand or arm.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Anything narrows the size of the carpal tunnel can be a cause. Some examples include:
Being overweight
Pregnancy
Activities that require wrist bending or a strong grip
Associated disorders such as arthritis or diabetes
Genetics
A previous injury to the wrist
What are the signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
A pain or an ache in your fingers, hand or arms.
Numbness in your hands.
Tingling or pins and needles in your hand or fingers.
A weakness in your thumb.
Difficulty with grip strength.
What can help carpal tunnel syndrome?
Prescribed exercises from a trained professional.
A wrist splint. These keep your wrists straight. They help relieve pressure on the median nerve. It is worn at night. It often takes four weeks or longer for you to start to feel a benefit.
A reduction in activities that cause a constant wrist bend or require a strong grip. Such as DIY or playing a musical instrument.
A thank you note.
Finally, Pinnacle Posture thanks you for reading this blog post. We hope you liked it. Importantly, please share it via social media and direct it to those that it may help. After all, a reduction in pain, a chance to continue in a sport or even an eased concern can change someone’s world.