Top 3 Myths About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Dr. Frank Campanile, a board certified plastic surgeon with fellowship training in hand and microsurgery, holds a S.O.T.H. (Surgery Of The Hand) certificate and leads Denver Hand Surgery, which specializes in treating conditions of the hand, including carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, trigger finger and other hand and wrist related injuries and ailments.
As the number of carpal tunnel syndrome cases increases, with 500,000 related surgeries per year (according to this New York Times article), so too does the amount of misinformation about the condition. To set the record straight, here are the top three myths about carpal tunnel syndrome and the best ways to treat it.
1. It’s Because of My Keyboard
There is no hard evidence that Carpal tunnel is directly linked to excessive computer use, or to using the wrong keyboard. The condition could be the result of virtually any repetitive motion that causes cumulative damage over the years.
Further, not all wrist pain is carpal tunnel. Pain in the hand, arm or wrists following a long day of typing could be caused by arthritis, tendonitis or an injury. These can all cause symptoms that are very similar to carpal tunnel, yet a different treatment approach may be required to be effective. As with any health concern, it’s critical that you visit an experienced medical doctor who can give you an accurate diagnosis and suggestions on how to properly minimize any discomfort.