Pain in the hand and wrist is common, often raising questions about its cause. Carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis are two frequently discussed conditions with overlapping symptoms. This article clarifies whether these conditions can occur simultaneously and provides an understanding of each.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) develops when the median nerve becomes compressed within the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. This compression often results in symptoms affecting the thumb, index, middle, and a portion of the ring finger. Common symptoms include numbness, tingling, and a sensation similar to an electric shock in these digits.
Individuals with CTS may also experience weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects. Symptoms frequently worsen at night, potentially waking individuals from sleep, and can also occur during activities like holding a steering wheel or phone. Repetitive hand and wrist motions, prolonged wrist flexion, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or rheumatoid arthritis can contribute to the development of CTS. Fluid retention, common during pregnancy and menopause, can also increase pressure within the carpal tunnel, irritating the median nerve.
Understanding Tendonitis
Tendonitis involves the inflammation of a tendon, the fibrous cords connecting muscles to bones. In the hand and wrist, this condition manifests as localized pain, tenderness, and swelling in the affected area. Movement of the wrist or fingers can exacerbate the pain, and individuals might experience stiffness or a “catching” sensation.
Overuse or repetitive stress on the tendons are common causes of tendonitis, such as from typing, playing video games, or performing specific physical tasks. Sudden injuries or improper technique can also contribute to its onset. One common type affecting the wrist and hand is De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, which specifically involves the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist, causing pain when turning the wrist, grasping, or making a fist.
Co-Occurrence and Differentiation
It is possible to experience both carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis at the same time. The anatomical proximity of the median nerve and numerous tendons within the wrist means that inflammation or swelling in one area can affect the other. For instance, repetitive strain or overuse can independently cause both conditions, or swelling from tendonitis of the flexor tendons within the carpal tunnel can directly contribute to median nerve compression.
Distinguishing between the two conditions involves noting key differences in symptoms. Carpal tunnel syndrome primarily presents with nerve-related symptoms like numbness, tingling, and a “pins and needles” sensation, affecting the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. These sensory disturbances are often worse at night and can radiate up the forearm. In contrast, tendonitis causes localized inflammatory pain, tenderness to the touch along the affected tendon, and pain that intensifies with specific movements of the wrist or fingers. While both conditions can cause pain, the pain from tendonitis is more focused on the tendon itself and does not involve the widespread numbness or tingling characteristic of CTS.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Given the potential for overlapping symptoms and co-occurrence, self-diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome or tendonitis can be challenging. It is important to seek medical advice if you experience persistent pain, worsening numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or wrist. Prompt diagnosis is important, as untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage. Consulting a healthcare provider ensures an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.