Women are More Susceptible to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

People dealing with aching hands may have carpal tunnel syndrome. It can be debilitating and, unfortunately, women are more likely to develop this condition than men.

Hormonal changes in women are to blame for the difference. Those changes can affect fluid retention, especially in women who are pregnant or going through menopause.

According to Clayton Alexander, M.D., a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon at The Shoulder, Elbow, Wrist and Hand Center at Mercy, carpal tunnel syndrome may not only be painful, but it can also cause tingling in your hand. There are several ways to treat it.

"A brace often is the initial treatment; sometimes, we can perform injections. And if those things aren’t giving you relief, then a carpal tunnel release surgery," Dr. Alexander said.

For people who start dropping things or their fingers swell or they can't sense hot or cold in their hand, it's time to get an evaluation with your doctor. Carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage.

View Mercy orthopedic surgeon Dr. Clayton Alexander’s interview regarding carpal tunnel syndrome.