What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpus is a word derived from the Greek word karpos, which means “wrist.” The wrist is surrounded by a band of fibrous tissue that normally functions as a support for the joint. The tight space between this fibrous band and the wrist bone is called the carpal tunnel. The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel to receive sensations from the thumb, index, and middle fingers of the hand. Any condition that causes swelling or a change in position of the tissue within the carpal tunnel can squeeze and irritate the median nerve. Irritation of the median nerve in this manner causes tingling and numbness of the thumb, index, and the middle fingers — a condition known as “carpal tunnel syndrome.” – MedicineNet.com
I have been experiencing tingling and numbness feeling on my right hand and arm for more than a year now. I initially thought my hands were just tired because of prolonged use of the computer. I changed my mouse a few times in my desire to make my right hand comfortable while I’m online. I don’t wash my hands right after working for several hours, so I don’t think it’s rheumatism kicking in. I was alarmed when my grip strength decreased and I often drop things.
When I had the chance, I went to see my doctor to find out if it’s related to my Diabetes. Well, it’s not, so she then referred me to the Neurosciences Department to undergo EMG or Electromyography.
I wasn’t prepared for what happened next. I thought it was just a simple check up with another doctor,lol.. The next thing I knew, the lady was poking me with an instrument that sent electricity to my right hand and arm. It’s called a Nerve Conduction test. It’s necessary so they can evaluate the degree of my complaints and to rule out Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Here’s a few photos taken while the lady or med tech was away,lol..
And it didn’t end there! The doc came and read the results. They were talking medical terms but from the sound of it, I figured I already have CTS. I was right! He then made me sit on a chair and bowed my head and electrified me some more,lol.. This time it was on my nape. Oh, it hurt so bad because he inserted some acupuncture needles too, which also sent electricity to my nape and spine. But luckily, no problem there.
When we’re done, I asked him if CTS has something to do with prolonged use of the computer (typing, right posture and using the mouse). The doc said YES because we exert more effort and put a lot of pressure on our wrists.
I researched on this and found this article that I’d like to share with you, fellow bloggers, just to make you aware of what might happen if we don’t take care of our hands. If you want to read some more, just click the source below.
Computers have long got the rap as one of the leading causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. There are always studies that both support and negate this statement, but it has become one of the leading reasons for missing work.- CTS Place
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One Proud Momma – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Related To Blogging http://bit.ly/cjCQWO
One Proud Momma – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Related To Blogging http://bit.ly/cjCQWO
I really don’t want to mention “carpal tunnel syndrome” on my blog post about my right wrist ’cause just thinking about it makes me wanna puke. I’ve read articles about it and so I’m scared that this is what’s happening to me. What did the doctor tell you? Just rest your wrist? Waahhh! I can’t do that! That’s why I’m opting to buy that expensive trackball mouse! I did some research about it and a lot of people said it did wonders to their wrist!
Where did you undergo a checkup? I might have mine checked, too, as soon as my health card gets approved. Don’t want to spend too much on a checkup.
The doc said that I have mild carpal tunnel syndrome, so it means it just started this year nga. Yup rest of course is one thing, plus vitamin B Complex coz mild pa lang. Soak in lukewarm water for a few minutes, exercise, right posture when on the computer and right position of the wrist. If it persist, might undergo therapy. If it’s already painful and can’t tolerate it, Surgery..
I went to Perpetual Hospital here in LP. OO sis, wait for your health card kc the EMG costs around 2k under my health card eh, so it could be more expensive if cash..
Have it checked na so you’ll know what to do next 🙂 Thanks sis
@EihdraG,
Thanks for the tips, sis! My bro (RN) also suggested that I take Vit. B. Didn’t take him seriously (hahaha) ’til you mentioned it. LOLz.
I’m planning on buying the trackman mouse by next week. Will let you know if it’ll really help ease the pain.
Oh di ba, tama ako.. 🙂
RT @Eihdra: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Related To Blogging http://bit.ly/9rzWd9
Blogging you right back,
dont you think you want the chatbox widget?? 😀
more power 😀
Hi. I do have a shoutmix widget, you just have to reload the page if it doesn’t show up.. Thanks for dropping by 🙂
oo nga.. minsan.. namanhid na yung carpals ko..hahahah…
try exercising and massaging your hands and arms vernz para mag flow properly yung blood. Thanks 🙂
Have plenty of rest, CTS is very common to bloggers and computer geeks talaga.
OO nga eh.. and also vitamin B Complex.. Thanks Badet 🙂
I remember a friend of mine who has been operated with her both wrist just last year but I’m not sure if it was caused by excessive computer use. But she was devastated after the operation since she can’t pick up heavy objects for several weeks already.
You’re scaring me naman eh.. Hope it won’t happen to me… (: