Two conditions that are often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common hand problem. It’s often misdiagnosed because it shares many symptoms with other conditions. Find out why two conditions are commonly misdiagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressing on the median nerve. The carpal tunnel is a passageway that connects the median nerve to the wrist.

This condition can cause numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers and hands. CTS may improve on its own after a few weeks, but if your symptoms worsen, you might need to seek further treatment.

CTS is more common in women than in men, and it tends to occur between the ages 50-54 and 1975-84.

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How often is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome misdiagnosed, and why?

Testing is difficult. It’s often misdiagnosed because it shares many symptoms with other conditions. Other conditions can also cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling.

What are two conditions that are often misdiagnosed as Carpal Tunnel Syndromes?

Arthritis is a condition that’s often misdiagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. Arthritis affects all fingers, while CTS only affects the pinky. CTS is more common at night, while arthritis doesn’t change with time. While both conditions share some symptoms, they are also very different. Early on, rheumatoid (RA) can be mistaken for CTS.

The wrist flexor tendonitis also shares similar symptoms. Both conditions share similar symptoms and signs. Both conditions can cause tingling or pain in the fingers and hands. The location of pain or discomfort is the key to distinguishing between the two. CTS is located on the palm side of the wrist. The tingling may spread to the index finger, middle finger, or thumb. Tendonitis, on the other hand, occurs on the opposite side of the wrist and causes numbness to the pinky. Carpal tunnel syndrome does not affect the pinky.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be misdiagnosed in two different conditions. It’s important to get an accurate diagnosis from your doctor.

What Symptoms Are Similar to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Other conditions can accompany carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Nerves prickled
• Ligament damage
• Neuropathy
• Wrist injury

The Harley Clinic offers treatment for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome includes both non-surgical and operative methods. For mild or moderate cases, you may be asked to wear a splint to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. You may also be asked to modify your activities to prevent aggravation. Your doctor may recommend carpal tunnel surgery if your condition doesn’t improve.