WHAT IS CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common conditions that I treat as a hand surgeon. It is a condition that occurs when a nerve in the wrist (the median nerve) is pinched or compressed as it travels through a tight area deep in the palm called the carpal tunnel.
CAUSES
Anything that causes increased swelling or pressure within the carpal tunnel can cause carpal tunnel. In most cases there is no obvious direct cause, but several factors and medical conditions have been associated with carpal tunnel syndrome including:
· Overuse or repetitive activities
· Swelling due to pregnancy
· Diabetes, thyroid, and rheumatoid diseases
· Swelling due to fractures or other acute injuries
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of this condition can include:
· Pain, numbness, or tingling usually affecting the thumb, index and ring fingers
· Weakness or clumsiness of the hand
· Symptoms are often worse at night and with certain activities like driving, but over time can become
constant
IS THERE A TEST FOR CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?
Yes! By talking with you about your symptoms and medical history, and examining your hand, I can detect most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome. If symptoms are severe or long-standing, a nerve test is performed in order to confirm the location of the pinched nerve and help guide further treatment.
TREATMENT
I typically recommend starting with nonoperative treatment options including:
· Activity modification recommendations
· Wrist splinting
· Anti-inflammatory medications
· Steroid injections
Operative Treatment:
In cases that are severe, long-standing, or have failed nonoperative treatment, a minor surgical procedure can often significantly improve symptoms. There are several options regarding the type of anesthesia and procedure, but the most common technique involves mild IV sedation, local numbing in the palm, then a small incision in the palm to relieve pressure on the pinched nerve.
IS THERE ANY HARM TO WAITING?
While occasional episodes of mild numbness and tingling may be harmless, frequent or severe carpal tunnel symptoms may lead to permanent nerve damage.
READY TO CONFIRM A DIAGNOSIS AND FIX THE PROBLEM OR JUST WANT TO LEARN MORE?
Call Hand Institute of Charleston to schedule an office or tele-health appointment, and I'll get you started on the path to recovery. No referral required.
854-423-HAND (4263)
This article is not a substitute for in-person medical advice or diagnosis and is for educational purposes only.
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