Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Your carpal tunnel is a narrow opening in your wrist that allows your median nerve to extend into your hand. Your carpal tunnel consists of bone and a tight band of connective tissue, with very little flexibility. As a result, any inflammation around the carpal tunnel can impinge on your median nerve and trigger carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, tingling sensations, and weakness. You may develop these symptoms in your hand, or they may extend up your forearm. Carpal tunnel syndrome can make it hard for you to grasp objects, and you might feel weak and clumsy.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms are often worse at night and may even wake you up. Like many people, you may sleep with your hands and wrists curled, which can compress your nerve. 

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome emerges when inflammation in your wrist narrows your carpal tunnel, and your median nerve is compressed. Repetitive hand use is a common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially if those motions include holding your hand in a flexed or extended position for prolonged periods. Additionally, health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid imbalances, and diabetes can trigger inflammation in your wrists.

How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?

The doctors at Republic Spine and Pain begin treatment with an exam to diagnose the cause of your symptoms. They use tests such as Phalen’s test and Tinel’s sign to determine if your median nerve is compressed. Your doctor may also order lab tests, X-rays, and nerve conduction studies to confirm your carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis. 

When your diagnosis is complete, your doctor creates a personalized treatment plan to relieve your symptoms and the compression in your wrist. Depending on your needs, your treatment program may include:

• Splints and braces
• Medication management
• Cortisone injections
• Stellate ganglion block
• Physical therapy

If your condition doesn’t respond to less invasive treatments, you may need surgery to reduce the pressure on your median nerve. Your doctor may recommend endoscopic carpal tunnel release or open release procedures.

If you have carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, call Republic Spine and Pain or schedule a consultation online today to learn about your treatment options.