Craig M. Torosian, M.D.
"What causes it?"
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops in people who have a tendency toward swelling or inflammation of their hands. The nerve passes through a rigid tunnel within the wrist. It travels with nine tendons, which control the fingers. This tunnel is just wide enough for these ten structures. When the tendons are irritated, they become swollen and take up more space. This compresses the nerve, cutting off its blood supply. This causes numbness, weakness and pain.
"What can you do to help?"
Using a wrist splint at night provides support for the wrist and keeps the wrist in a position which minimizes pressure on the nerve. It can help alleviate the numbness which awakens one at night.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as Advil or Aleve, can help reduce swelling and pain.
100 mg of vitamin B6 has been shown in some studies to help nerve nutrition.
See your doctor!
While most cases of carpal tunnel are isolated, it can be caused by other diseases. These include an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), diabetes and pregnancy, as well as many others.