Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve in your wrist. People who use their hands and wrists repeatedly in the same way (for example, illustrators, carpenters, and assembly-line workers) tend to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Pressure on the nerve may also be caused by a fracture or other injury, which may cause inflammation and swelling. In addition, pressure may be caused by inflammation and swelling associated with arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism. Carpal tunnel syndrome can also occur during pregnancy. The symptoms include: Pain, numbness, or tingling in your hand and wrist, especially in the thumb and index and middle fingers, and occasionally in the upper arm Increased pain with increased use of your hand Increased pain at night Weak grip and tendency to drop objects held in the hand Sensitivity to cold Muscle deterioration especially in the thumb (in later stages). Contact us for more information on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Trigger Finger

Trigger finger is a common disorder of the hand which causes a painful snapping or locking of the fingers or thumb. The medical name for this condition is stenosing tenosynovitis. Stenosing refers to the narrowing of an opening or passageway in the body. Tenosynovitis refers to inflammation of the outer covering of the tendons that bend and extend the fingers and thumb. The tendons are tough, fibrous cords that connect the muscles of the forearm to the bones of the fingers and thumb. This muscle and tendon system enables one to bend the fingers inward when making a fist, and extend them out straight. The exact cause of trigger finger or thumb is not always readily apparent. In many cases, however, this condition may be the result of repeated strain of this area due to work or hobby activities. Tasks that require repetitive grasping or the prolonged use of tools (scissors, screwdrivers, etc.) which press firmly on the tendon sheath at the base of the finger or thumb may irritate the tendons and result in thickening of the tendons themselves or the tendon sheath. Symptoms of trigger finger may also be associated with conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or metabolic disorders such as diabetes that produce changes in connective tissues and synovium. Contact us for more information on Trigger Finger