Shoulder pain is an often overlooked symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome. It may seem counter-intuitive, but the pinching of the median nerve affects more than just your hand. You may experience pain or numbness in every muscle and joint between the tips of the fingers and the cortex of the brain.
How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Can Lead to Shoulder Pain
The carpal tunnel is a narrow region in the wrist that is located on the side of the palm. It protects the tendons that are responsible for bending the fingers, as well as the median nerve. When there is too much pressure in this area, a person can experience weakness, numbness, or tingling in the fingers and hand.
Over time, the entire functionality of a person’s arm can be affected. Shoulder pain can be intense and constant, or it can occur with specific motions such as reaching overhead or behind the back. This can make it difficult to handle everyday tasks as simple as brushing your hair or putting away your groceries after a shopping trip.
Getting a Diagnosis for Carpal Tunnel
Do not attempt to diagnose your condition at home. Although it’s estimated that about 75% of cases of shoulder pain are related to carpal tunnel syndrome, there are a number of other medical problems that can also cause similar pain and limited range of motion. A doctor can perform a full examination to determine if carpal tunnel syndrome is the culprit. Contact our Towson office to learn more about how we can get you back to making the most of each day.
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