Guide To The Symptoms Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Reduced Grip Strength

Individuals dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome may also notice they have a reduced grip strength that may worsen over time. The nervous system is responsible for controlling movements. The brain sends signals to the muscles through the nerves. When the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, the brain cannot send effective signals to the fingers. Since the nerve is not damaged enough to interrupt the signals entirely, individuals can still grip things. However, they may not have the same strength or tightness they used to. This can make it very difficult and frustrating to engage in activities like writing with a pen, typing, painting, knitting, and crocheting.

Artists who hold tablet pens and pencils frequently are more susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome. There are several exercises individuals can do to keep their wrists flexible and prevent their nerves from becoming compressed. It also helps to get up and stretch at least once every half hour or so, which prevents the wrists from becoming stiff.

Muscle Cramping

Muscle cramping is also common with carpal tunnel syndrome. Patients may notice it when trying to use their dominant hand to complete tasks like painting or typing. However, the cramping can also persist even in situations where they are not actively using their hands. Individuals may experience pain and cramping when they are just trying to watch television or go to bed. The decreased nerve conduction can cause their muscles to become weaker over time as well.

When muscle cramps are caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, experts refer to this as a carpal spasm. Spasms occur when the muscles contract involuntarily. It is not very common for carpal tunnel syndrome to lead to muscle spasms in the hands, though some patients have experienced this occurrence. If individuals notice their dominant hand is cramping involuntarily on an ongoing basis, they should talk to a doctor. The reason is that there are other causes of muscle spasms as well. Individuals may experience spasms without carpal tunnel syndrome if they have overused their muscles by typing, writing, or drawing without a break. Low magnesium and calcium can also lead to cramping.