Forearm pain or carpal tunnel symptoms that has not gotten better with treatment or surgery? Read on!
Pronator syndrome is a condition that affects the nerves in the forearm and wrist. It is caused by the compression or impingement of the median nerve (same nerve compressed with carpal tunnel syndrome!), which runs from the shoulder down to the wrist and is responsible for controlling the movement and sensation of the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. This compression occurs in the pronator teres muscle, which is a small muscle located on the inside of the forearm that rotates the arm inward.
Symptoms
The symptoms of pronator syndrome include pain and weakness in the forearm and hand, as well as numbness and tingling in the affected fingers. These symptoms may worsen with repetitive or forceful use of the hand and arm, such as gripping objects, or using hand tools, or through activity that requires you to be palm down a majority of the time (think of typing…not great!). This condition can make fun leisurely activities like tennis, weight lifting, yoga, golf all painful— missing out on these things is not worth it! Talk to a specialist!
The causes of pronator syndrome can vary, but most commonly, it is caused by repetitive use or overuse of the arm and hand, such as in athletes who perform repetitive motions, individuals who work with hand tools for extended periods or those who are frequently in the palm down positioning such as typing away on keyboards ALL DAY LONG. Other causes may include trauma to the arm, wrist, or hand, such as a fracture or dislocation.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pronator syndrome can be challenging, as it can be mistaken for other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome. A doctor will typically perform a physical examination, including testing for strength, sensation, and reflexes in the affected arm and hand. Additional tests such as X-rays, MRI, or EMG may also be ordered to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Treatment for pronator syndrome typically involves physical or occupation therapy to help strengthen the affected muscles and improve flexibility. Your therapist should consider the entire nerve, from your neck all the way to your hand to make sure its gliding smoothly throughout its full track. In some cases, a splint or brace may be used to immobilize the affected area and allow it to heal. Your therapist will walk you through all this and give to stretching and exercises to do on your own time. An ergonomic assessment of your work set up can be a game changer for those of you that work at your computer all day!
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