Prevention
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How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is
suspected based on the symptoms and the distribution of the hand numbness.
Examination of the neck, shoulder, elbow, pulses, and reflexes can be performed
to exclude other conditions that can mimic carpal tunnel syndrome.
Your doctor may ask you questions and
conduct one or more of the following tests to determine whether you have carpal
tunnel syndrome:
History of symptoms.
Your doctor will review the pattern of your
symptoms. For example, because the median nerve doesn't provide sensation to
your little finger, symptoms in that finger may indicate a problem other than
carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms usually
occur include while holding a phone or a newspaper, gripping a steering wheel,
or waking up during the night.
Physical examination.
Your doctor will conduct a physical
examination. He or she will test the feeling in your fingers and the strength
of the muscles in your hand.
Bending the wrist, tapping on the nerve or
simply pressing on the nerve can trigger symptoms in many people.
Imaging studies
Some doctors recommend an X-ray or CT Scan
of the affected wrist to exclude other causes of wrist pain, such as arthritis
or a fracture.
Electromyogram
This test measures the tiny electrical
discharges produced in muscles. During this test, your doctor inserts a
thin-needle electrode into specific muscles to evaluate the electrical activity
when muscles contract and rest. This test can identify muscle damage and may
rule out other conditions.
Nerve conduction study.
In a variation of electromyography, two
electrodes are taped to your skin. A small shock is passed through the median
nerve to see if electrical impulses are slowed in the carpal tunnel. This test
may be used to diagnose your condition and rule out other conditions.