You're welcome.
One additional thought is that you might consider asking your supervisor about having an ergonomic evaluation of your work station.
Some helpful links:
1. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/etools/computerworkstations/index.html
2. http://ergo.human.cornell.edu/ergoguide.html
3. http://video.about.com/ergonomics/Ergonomics-at-Work.htm
4. http://www.ergoindemand.com/ergonomic-computer-workstation-guidelines.htm
5. http://www.ehealthmd.com/library/carpaltunnel/CT_treatment.html
6. http://arthritis.about.com/od/carpal/Carpal_Tunnel_Syndrome_
Causes_Diagnosis_Symptoms_Treatment.htm
~•~ Dr. Parks
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.
Thank you so much for your response!
I am 23 years old, never had any medical issues at all, or at least I have never known about it. I live in Pittsburgh where it's a known fact that all buildings have lead paint, asbestos, etc. because of how old they are. Other than that - no known exposure to chemicals or solvents. Hobbies - used to be computers, now I am limiting the use because of the pain; walking a lot, travelling, cooking..
Carpal tunnel syndrome is not uncommon in the neighboring departments at work - noone in my department has ever had it, so I just assumed that as me being the youngest there and one of the new employees, I couldn't have developed it so fast.
I definately will try to see a General Practitioner as soon as possible. I cannot thank you enough for your answer!
Hello:
You should begin with finding a primary care provider (general practitioner - Family Medicine or Internal Medicine). That person may refer you to a specialist (orthopedic physician).
Before I provide specific information to address your questions, I have a few questions for you. How young (or old) are you? Do you have any medical problems (high blood pressure, diabetes, tobacco use, thyroid disease, exposures to chemicals or solvents, exposure to lead, etc). Have you performed remodeling of a home in the last year? Do you have any hobbies?
Your symptoms may be consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome or possibly repetitive strain injury. Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by numbness and tingling in the hands (and pain may also be present) that is often worse at night and after prolonged use of the hands.
It is also common for carpal tunnel syndrome to result in a person changing posture and trying to compensate with excessive use of neck and shoulder muscles--causing pain and discomfort in the neck and shoulders.
Carpal tunnel is one possible explanation of your symptoms.
I hope this is helpful to you.
~•~ Dr. Parks
This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice. The information presented in this posting is for patients’ education only. As always, I encourage you to see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.