Thread: Could this be carpal tunnel syndrome?

Originally Posted by alibaby

I've been having a lot of pain in the palm of my right hand that radiates out to my thumb and fingers. Sometimes the pain runs up my arm to my elbow. It hurts to hold a pencil, which makes writing difficult. I think it might have something to do with increased use of my computer to do schoolwork, but now it's getting to the point where it keeps me up at night because I feel so uncomfortable when I lie down. I'm getting fed up with taking ibuprofen (which seems to have stopped working) and using those BenGay-type patches. I was wondering if anyone has had carpal tunnel syndrome or if these sound like symptomes related to it. Any responses would be greatly appreciated.

Yes, I think it definately is. That is what I have too but I do not want surgery. I wear one of those special elastic type deals during the night as I can't sleep otherwise and sometimes it feels pretty good. Then the pain will take over if I knock a knuckle or something and radiate all the way up to my elbow. I am living on ibuprofen too. Eight a day. Sometime I cannot grip with my fingers like you. It goes away and then comes back. I have researched all the sites and it sure sounds like it. I took the test first without knowing and I believe 8 out of 10 things I was positive on....

Thank you, CarolineWH.

Eight pills a day. I hate taking any kind of medication, so I'm just gritting my teeth and trying to bare it as best I can. I was trying to hold out for my annual physical next month, but I think I'll be calling my dr today. I will be shopping for that arm brace.

Thanks again for sharing your experience.

Hi Again: Because of how hard Ibuprofen can be on your stomach and must be taken with food, my doctor has switched me to Acetaminophen which I get from one of the biggest chains in drugs. Don't want to mention it here. Cheaper and easier on your stomach. I had been up to 8 because of the pain but it now has eased off and I usually go with four per day which does not bother my digestive tract.

I also use the Mueller Adjustable Wrist Brace made for Caerpal Tunnel Syndrome. This is also available at the same chain. I have talked with people who have had the surgery for this and it does come back. This brace can be used on either hand and really is fantastic. Actually I picked up three as they are not that expensive. One for me to lose and one for washing when it is soiled. These braces let you sleep at night. I have noticed since I use them that I have improved so much that there are now days that it does not even bother me. Funny thing is the amount of women I see wearing them. I think it is a woman's thing....That is all we need but another thing to look forward to....

Hope this helps and take care....

Caroline

I had this in both my hands and yes it does sound like you have the same,i found it hard to write,hold a book or magazine and i even like to sew and knit and my fingers felt like pins and needles and awful at bed time.I had a small operation on both my hands and every thing is fine now.

yorkielass