Diseases and Conditions

Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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While creating an inability to do regular functions in one hand could make life miserable, issues occurring in both the hands could make life hell. The majority of the bilateral hand issues are treatable when the causal factor is well identified. Of all of the varied conditions that may affect bilateral hands, CTS appears to be the most famous one. Bilateral Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – To get a far greater comprehension of this problem, it is vital to be well-informed as to the structural make-up of the human hand. The hand consists of several bones, joints, structures along with tendons, muscles, nerves, along with blood vessels.

The wrist joint, that connects the arm as well as the hand, includes little bones called carpals. The carpal bones join with two arm bones, specifically the radius and ulna. In the wrist is found a tunnel called the carpal tunnel. Through this tunnel passes one nerve known as the median nerve that branches out to join with the thumb, index, center, along with a part of the ring finger. Another nerve known as the ulnar nerve travels through another tunnel. The nerves are subjected to several problems because of their constant flexing and straightening movements. If extreme pressure is put on the median nerve of both the hands, it shows signs of bilateral CTS.

Symptoms – The signs are often noted in the areas which are linked with the median nerve – the center, index, thumb, along with part of the ring finger. At first, the individual will experience numbness or a pins along with needles feeling that may increasingly develop into occasional sharp shooting pains accompanied with a burning sense or a marked weakness of the hand. The symptoms are usually perceived in both the hands, but can be more serious in each one. The symptoms are more evident during the night probably due to the way wherein the hands are placed while sleeping, or due to a rise in hormones that usually occur during the night.

Causes – As stated, CTS arise when undue pressure is put on the median nerve of the hand. Any bodily problems that place pressure on the median nerve could be considered as a causative factor. Obesity and its related issues like diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, arthritic problems, and gout may trigger CTS bilaterally. Pressure placed from the development of synovial cysts, lipomas on the surrounding tissues, or any problems happening in the hand vasculature might as nicely contribute to the development of CTS in some.