|
Technically, it’s called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which is a condition that develops when you grip anything, or your wrist is flexed for a long time. It has become quite common due to increased use of cellphones, computers and video games.
Besides causing inflammation at the front of the wrist, it puts pressure on the median nerve, causing numbness in the hand and a tendency to drop objects . It can also lead to muscle weakness in the hands.
How to prevent it: The wrist should be extended or bent backwards at the optimal angle or 15 degrees, while holding the cellphone. And while typing, ensure you rest your wrist either on the desk or invest in a keyboard that has a provision for resting your wrist.
How to treat it: An electrical nerve conduction test can diagnose this condition. This is an outpatient procedure where a small current is passed through a nerve (of the wrist) and using a machine, doctors monitor the impulses in that nerve.
Such tests are done at some hospitals. The best treatment for CTS is rest. Use hands-free devices while using cellphones. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physiotherapy and splinting also helps. The last resort is a minor operation where the tunnel is opened up and the median nerve is freed. |
|