Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Singapore: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common nerve compression disorder that affects many people in Singapore, especially those with desk jobs or occupations that involve repetitive hand movements. It causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers, which can interfere with daily activities and quality of life.

In this article, we will explain what carpal tunnel syndrome is, explore its causes and symptoms, discuss diagnostic procedures, and outline the available treatment options and associated costs in Singapore.

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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that results from the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist.

This nerve controls sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, as well as muscle function at the base of the thumb. When it is compressed, it leads to pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected hand.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Causes

The main causes of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Repetitive hand and wrist motions: Activities such as typing, using a mouse, or assembly line work can strain the wrist over time.
• Prolonged wrist flexion or extension: Sleeping with bent wrists or holding tools in awkward positions can increase pressure on the median nerve.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can lead to fluid retention, which may compress the median nerve.
• Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of developing CTS.
• Wrist injuries: Fractures or sprains can alter the anatomy of the wrist, leading to increased pressure on the median nerve.
• Genetic predisposition: Some individuals may have a naturally smaller carpal tunnel, making them more susceptible to nerve compression.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

Recognizing the symptoms early can lead to more effective treatment:

• Numbness or tingling: Often felt in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.
• Weakness in the hand: Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks.
• Pain radiating from the wrist: Discomfort may extend up the forearm or even to the shoulder.
• Difficulty with fine motor skills: Tasks like buttoning a shirt or typing may become challenging.
• Nighttime symptoms: Many patients report symptoms worsening at night, potentially disrupting sleep.

Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment:

Physical examination: Tests like Tinel’s sign (tapping over the median nerve) and Phalen’s test (flexing the wrist) help identify CTS.

Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Measure the speed of electrical impulses through the median nerve.

Electromyography (EMG): Assesses the electrical activity of muscles to detect nerve damage.

Imaging tests: X-rays or ultrasounds may be used to rule out other conditions.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Singapore

Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition:

1. Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments

• Wrist splinting: Keeps the wrist in a neutral position, especially during sleep, to reduce pressure on the median nerve.
• Activity modification: Avoiding repetitive wrist activities and taking regular breaks can alleviate symptoms.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain.
• Corticosteroid injections: Injected directly into the carpal tunnel to reduce inflammation.
• Physiotherapy and occupational therapy: Therapists can provide exercises and techniques to strengthen the wrist and improve flexibility.

2. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Exercises

Regular exercises can help alleviate symptoms:

• Wrist flexor and extensor stretches: Improve flexibility and reduce tension in the wrist muscles.
• Median nerve gliding exercises: Promote movement of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel.
• Wrist rotations and finger stretches: Enhance circulation and reduce stiffness.

3. Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist:

• Open carpal tunnel release: A small incision is made in the palm to cut the transverse carpal ligament, relieving pressure on the median nerve.
• Endoscopic carpal tunnel release: A minimally invasive procedure using a camera to guide the release of the ligament.

Recovery times vary, but most patients experience significant symptom relief post-surgery.

Cost of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Treatment costs can vary based on the chosen facility and treatment method:

Please note that these costs are estimates and can vary based on individual circumstances and specific healthcare providers. It’s advisable to consult directly with the chosen medical facility for precise pricing.

Need Help Finding an Orthopaedic Specialist?

If you’re dealing with ongoing wrist pain or numbness, don’t wait too long. We can help connect you with a trusted orthopaedic surgeon in Singapore for an initial consultation and tailored treatment plan.

Preferred Orthopaedic Specialist (Upper Limbs): Dr Bryan Wang

Preferred Orthopaedic Specialist (Lower Limbs): Dr Ananda Vella

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