Numbness in Fingers Can Signal Carpal Tunnel or Repetitive Stress Injury
Are you having a problem with numbness in your fingers? If you are there are a couple of possible explanations for this. The two most common problems that create numbness in the fingers are carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress injury. These two problems can both create this finger numbness, as well as other possible symptoms. With this in mind, here is a better look at these two issues and a bit more about them to help you determine which one you are probably dealing with.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the possible causes of finger numbness. The carpal tunnel actually extends through the wrist on the side of the palm, with its purpose being the protection of the median nerve and a variety of tendons as well. When there is too much pressure applied to this nerve this can lead to the problem of numbness, as well as other issues.
-Possible Other Symptoms - Although numbness of the fingers is one symptom of carpal tunnel, you'll find that there are many other symptoms as well. Often tingling occurs in the hand and fingers as well. Pain can be a symptom, and often occurs in the wrist, the fingers, and up into the arm. Weakness is another symptom that often comes along with carpal tunnel and it can even lead to problems dropping objects.
The Risks: There are several different risk factors that could make you more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Certain occupations are more likely to cause the syndrome. These occupations include any that involve using the wrist in motions that are repetitive. These occupations include working with computers, assembly line workers, and typists. These occupations can put you at a higher risk for developing the syndrome. There are even physical reasons for developing the syndrome, such as pregnancy, hypothyriodism, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.
Repetitive Stress Injury Another problem that can lead to finger numbness is repetitive stress injury. These injuries basically are injuries that can occur when you perform certain motions over and over again. In this case, it would include repetitively using your wrists and hands. Some of the injuries that can be included are epicondylitis, bursitis, tenosynovitis, tendonitis, and trigger finger.
-Causes - What exactly causes repetitive stress injuries to occur? Well, they can occur because of too many repetitions of certain motions. Also, doing motions that are unnatural to the wrist can also cause them. Muscle fatigue, over exerting, and the wrong posture can also be a cause of repetitive stress injuries.
-Signs and Symptoms - Numbness of the fingers is only one of the symptoms that occurs with repetitive stress injuries. Pain in the fingers and hands can be a symptom and tingling can also come along with this problem. Other symptoms include loss of strength, limited flexibility, redness, and even swelling.
Both carpal tunnel syndrome and repetitive stress injury can cause numbness in your fingers. It is a good idea to see your doctor so he can determine which problem you are experiencing. He will then be able to give you the proper treatment options.
Often improper ergonomic setup can be the culprit, with simple and inexpensive or even free solutions. Take a look at ergonomic resources for more tips!
Published December 1st, 2008
Filed in Health