Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects many people, particularly those who have jobs that require them to use their hands and wrists a lot. It is characterized by tingling, pain, numbness or weakness in the hand, wrist or fingers. If you have this condition you might find that the pain and discomfort seem to intensify at night. In this blog, we will explore whether or not CTS is worse at night and what you can do to alleviate the symptoms.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, is compressed. The median nerve runs through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, which is made up of bones and ligaments. When the tunnel becomes too narrow or swollen, it puts pressure on the nerve and causes symptoms.
Do Symptoms of CTS Worsen at Night?
It is common for people with CTS to experience more severe symptoms at night. This can happen because people usually sleep with their wrists bent, which can further compress the median nerve. Additionally, the body’s natural healing processes slow down when you sleep, so it can take longer for any inflammation or irritation around the median nerve to resolve itself.
How to Manage CTS Symptoms?
If you think you might have CTS, it’s important to speak with a doctor, who can perform a thorough examination and diagnose the condition. They may recommend treatments such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or medications to help alleviate the symptoms.
Physiotherapy can help alleviate the symptoms of CTS, as it involves techniques that reduce tension and swelling in the wrist and hand. Chiropractic care is another option, as chiropractors can perform adjustments that can help to alleviate pressure on the median nerve.
Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also help to alleviate pain and discomfort. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to alleviate pressure on the median nerve.
In conclusion, CTS may indeed worsen at night, and it can be a very uncomfortable condition. However, there are several treatment options available that can help to alleviate the symptoms. If you’re experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling in your wrists, hands, or fingers, it’s important to speak with a doctor who can perform a thorough examination and provide a diagnosis. Overall, the key to managing CTS is to take proactive steps to reduce inflammation, alleviate pressure on the median nerve, and allow the body to heal itself. You can get back to your daily routine with proper care and treatment.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Seth Siegfried, HBK, DC, or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
