Many people quickly assume that hand and wrist pain is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, but that’s not always the case. One condition often confused with carpal tunnel is ESS, which can lead to mistreatment if misdiagnosed. Here’s a closer look at these common culprits.
Tendonitis is another usual suspect when it comes to pain in the wrist and hand. This condition arises when the tendons, which connect muscles to bones, become inflamed. This could involve the tendon responsible for bending your fingers, known as the flexor tendon, or the one that straightens them, called the extensor tendon.
Just like carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis can bring about pain, tenderness, and weakness. These symptoms often get worse with repetitive wrist and hand activities, similar to what happens with carpal tunnel patients.
One main difference between tendonitis and carpal tunnel syndrome is the location and spread of pain. Tendonitis usually results in pain that is more focused at the spot of the inflamed tendon. Take De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, for example; it affects the tendons at the base of your thumb, causing significant pain on the thumb side of the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome, on the other hand, typically causes pain and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
Additionally, the timing of symptoms can differ with age groups. Carpal tunnel syndrome often causes numbness and tingling at night, disrupting sleep. Tendonitis, however, tends to cause discomfort throughout the day and can wake you up if you had to do any tasks.
Another condition that can mimic carpal tunnel syndrome is cervical radiculopathy, which might sound complex but refers to a pinched nerve in the neck. This condition arises when a herniated disc, bone spurs, or other issues compress a nerve root, causing pain, numbness, and weakness to radiate down your arm and into your hand.
Cervical radiculopathy can also make your hand hurt, go numb, or feel weak, just like carpal tunnel syndrome. But unlike carpal tunnel, the pain can travel from the neck down the arm, often accompanied by neck pain or stiffness, or even a weak arm or shoulder—symptoms not typical of carpal tunnel syndrome.
If hand or wrist pain is impacting your daily life, it’s crucial to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. They will review your medical history, perform an examination, and might conduct tests like X-rays or nerve conduction studies. This investigative process helps in identifying the true cause of your discomfort, ensuring you receive the right treatment. Even though carpal tunnel syndrome is often assumed to be the cause, a thorough evaluation can uncover the actual issue behind your hand troubles.
