Imagine waking up every morning with numbness or tingling in your hands, struggling to do simple tasks like typing or holding a coffee cup. This is the daily reality for many people suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a painful condition that often stems from repetitive work activities.
If you’re dealing with this frustrating injury, you might feel overwhelmed and unsure about your options for seeking justice and compensation. You’re not alone, and understanding the potential complications of this condition may help in your personal injury case.
Complications of CTS to watch out for
CTS can significantly impact those whose work involves repetitive hand movements. This injury arises when the median nerve becomes compressed within the carpal tunnel, leading to increased pressure that triggers various symptoms.
Initially, individuals may notice pain, numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle fingers and part of the ring finger. These sensations can disrupt sleep at night and then improve during the day.
As CTS progresses, the symptoms can extend beyond the fingers. Pain might spread to the wrist and forearm, but it usually doesn’t reach the neck. Over time, daytime activities like typing or drawing can trigger uncomfortable sensations, indicating that the condition is advancing.
Persistent or constant symptoms, particularly those that worsen at night, are strong indicators of CTS. Relief often comes from shaking the affected hand or wrist, a common reflex among patients.
In more severe cases, CTS leads to muscle weakness and clumsiness, making simple tasks like opening doorknobs or buttoning clothes challenging. Some hand muscles may begin to atrophy, deteriorating the patient’s motor skills.
Get treatment for CTS early
Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial, and ignoring them can lead to permanent sensory loss and muscle damage. If you’re experiencing these signs due to the nature of your work, consider seeking medical advice and exploring your legal options for compensation.
