Knitting and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by swelling and pressure
in the narrow semicircle of wrist bones and results in a pinched median nerve
in the wrist. This is the bane of computer
users. It is a syndrome of hand numbness or tingling, weakness, loss
of grip strength, hand pain, and the sense of the hands "falling asleep" upon
waking. It may also present with nighttime
numbness. The pain may even extend from the hands to the forearm, arm,
shoulder, back and neck.
While carpal tunnel syndrome
is usually a result of repetitive work or even recreational
activities, such as knitting, it may also be caused or worsened by conditions
such as pregnancy, hypothyroidism, diabetes, arthritis, and obesity. Other
possible causes include extensive use of hand tools (particularly vibrating
ones), tennis, or any other activities that involve prolonged twisting of
the wrist.
To treat this condition, avoid or limit activities that irritate
the wrist; apply ice for 15 minutes three times per day; wear a night splint
(available at most drug stores); and take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory
medications such as ibuprofen. There are a few other things you can do to
try to lessen symptoms. Try avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco; doing
exercises to strengthen the arms and shoulders; and/or increasing your intake
of vitamin B6. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. The good news is that if surgery is needed, it can often be
performed endoscopically, as an outpatient procedure, with return to full
activities a week later.
Created: 8/15/2005 - Donnica Moore, M.D.
