Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression disorder where the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. Symptoms typically include numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, often worse at night or with repetitive activities. Arthritis involves joint inflammation and degeneration. Osteoarthritis causes joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, often with bony enlargements (Heberden’s nodes at fingertips). Rheumatoid arthritis causes symmetrical joint swelling, morning stiffness, and systemic symptoms. While both can cause hand pain, carpal tunnel primarily affects sensation in specific fingers and often responds to wrist splints or release surgery, while arthritis treatment focuses on joint protection, medications, and sometimes joint replacement.

While typing alone doesn’t directly cause carpal tunnel syndrome, it can contribute to or exacerbate the condition in susceptible individuals. Repetitive hand movements, prolonged wrist flexion/extension, and high-force activities can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel. However, most research suggests that computer use is a minor risk factor compared to other occupational exposures (vibrating tools, forceful gripping). Individual factors like anatomy (smaller carpal tunnel), medical conditions (diabetes, thyroid disorders, pregnancy), and genetics play significant roles. Proper ergonomics (neutral wrist position, frequent breaks, ergonomic equipment) can reduce risk. If you develop symptoms, early intervention with splinting, activity modification, and exercises can often prevent progression.

Trigger finger (stenosing tenosynovitis) occurs when the flexor tendon that bends the finger becomes inflamed and thickened, catching or locking as it glides through the tendon sheath. This causes the finger to catch, pop, or lock in a bent position, sometimes requiring the other hand to straighten it. Treatment begins with conservative measures: activity modification, splinting (especially at night), and corticosteroid injections into the tendon sheath (60-90% effective). If conservative treatment fails, a minor surgical procedure called trigger finger release can be performed, either open or percutaneous. The surgery involves releasing the constricted portion of the tendon sheath, allowing smooth gliding. Recovery is usually quick, with most people returning to normal activities within a few weeks.

Yes, several effective treatments exist for thumb basal joint arthritis (CMC arthritis). Conservative treatments include: Splinting (thumb spica splint to rest the joint), activity modification (using adaptive equipment, avoiding pinch grips), medications (NSAIDs, topical analgesics), and corticosteroid injections for temporary relief. Hand therapy can teach joint protection techniques and strengthening exercises. If conservative measures fail, surgical options include: Ligament reconstruction tendon interposition (LRTI) (most common, removes arthritic bone, uses tendon as cushion), arthrodesis (fusion) (for young, active patients needing a strong grip), or arthroplasty (joint replacement) (for lower-demand patients wanting mobility). Success rates for surgery are high (90%+ for pain relief), with recovery taking 3-6 months to return to full strength.

Recent advances include: Ultrasound-guided procedures for precise injections and hydrodissection of nerves; regenerative medicine like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell injections for tendon/ligament healing; new DMARDs and biologics for rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis with fewer side effects; minimally invasive surgical techniques (endoscopic carpal tunnel release with smaller incisions); wearable technology for activity monitoring and biofeedback; advanced imaging (high-resolution ultrasound, 3T MRI) for earlier diagnosis; nerve conduction study alternatives (sonographic measurement of nerve cross-sectional area); and custom 3D-printed splints and implants. Research continues on biological joint resurfacing, advanced nerve repair techniques, and personalized medicine approaches based on genetic markers.