Two Conditions That Are Often Misdiagnosed as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

With more than 16.9 million Americans experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome each year, it’s likely you or someone you know has encountered its distinctive symptoms. This condition, characterized by numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand, is often confused with other issues due to similar symptoms. This article will explore the ins and outs of carpal tunnel syndrome and the two conditions that are often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome.

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What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, running through a narrow passage in your wrist to your hand, is compressed. This can lead to a range of symptoms, from discomfort to weakness in the hand. Diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome can be straightforward, often requiring just a physical exam, though sometimes further tests are needed to rule out other conditions.

What Are the Two Conditions That Are Often Misdiagnosed as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Even though Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common ailment, it’s important to remember that other illnesses might create similar hand-related symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis and tendinitis are the two conditions that are often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) might present symptoms similar to carpal tunnel syndrome, such as joint discomfort and stiffness. However, RA is an autoimmune disease that affects more than just your hands and wrists; it can impact your whole body, causing systemic symptoms like fatigue and fever, which carpal tunnel syndrome does not.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs Tendonitis

Tendonitis is another condition often mistaken for carpal tunnel syndrome. It involves inflammation of the tendons in your wrist or hand, leading to pain and limited motion. Unlike carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects the fingers and palm, tendonitis pain is localized near the affected tendon and usually worsens with specific movements.

The Most Common Activities That Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Activities that involve repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as typing, using vibrating tools, or engaging in certain sports, can increase your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Prolonged wrist flexion or improper hand positioning can also contribute to the compression of the median nerve.

How Can You Prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

While it’s challenging to completely avoid carpal tunnel syndrome, especially if you’re predisposed to it, you can take steps to mitigate its development. Regular stretching, maintaining ergonomic hand and wrist positions, and using wrist splints, especially at night, can help alleviate symptoms and slow the condition’s progression.

Do You Need Surgery If You Have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Surgery is not always necessary for carpal tunnel syndrome. Early stages can often be managed with non-surgical treatments like anti-inflammatories and wrist splinting. However, surgery might be recommended if symptoms persist to relieve pressure on the median nerve. This is typically a straightforward outpatient procedure with a quick recovery time.

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Conclusion

Recognizing the difference between the two conditions that are often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome, which is rheumatoid arthritis or tendonitis, is crucial for receiving the correct treatment. If you’re experiencing persistent hand and wrist symptoms, consulting with a specialist is the best course of action. With the right knowledge and medical advice, you can effectively manage or treat carpal tunnel syndrome and maintain your hand’s health and functionality.