We're Hiring! Join Our Team as a Nurse Practitioner - Apply Now. to Make a Difference in Patient Care!
Carpal Tunnel
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment and Management Services
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligaments, houses this nerve along with tendons. When this tunnel becomes narrowed or when the tendons become swollen, pressure is placed on the median nerve, leading to symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. If left untreated, CTS can result in permanent nerve damage, so early diagnosis and effective management are essential. At our clinic, we provide specialized care for patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, offering treatments that aim to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. This nerve controls sensation to the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers. It also controls the muscles at the base of the thumb. The carpal tunnel is a confined space at the base of the hand, and when it becomes inflamed due to various factors, it can compress the median nerve, leading to symptoms of CTS.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome often develop gradually and may worsen over time. They are commonly experienced at night and can interfere with daily activities such as typing, writing, or gripping objects. Early treatment is crucial for preventing further damage and maintaining hand function.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vary in intensity and duration but typically include:
- Numbness and Tingling: Especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, and often occurs at night.
- Pain: This can range from mild discomfort to severe pain in the wrist, hand, and fingers. The pain may radiate up the arm.
- Weakness: Difficulty gripping objects, such as dropping things or having trouble holding a pen or a cup.
- Swelling Sensation: Some individuals report a sensation of swelling or fullness in the hand, even if no swelling is visibly present.
- Clumsiness: Impaired fine motor skills, such as typing or buttoning a shirt, due to weakness in the hand muscles.
These symptoms may worsen with activities that require repetitive hand movements, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or manual labor. In severe cases, the muscles at the base of the thumb may begin to atrophy.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. These include:
- Repetitive Hand Movements: Engaging in repetitive motions, such as typing, assembly line work, or excessive use of handheld devices, increases pressure on the carpal tunnel.
- Wrist Anatomy: Some individuals may have a naturally smaller carpal tunnel, which can increase susceptibility to compression of the median nerve.
- Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, and obesity increase the risk of developing CTS due to inflammation or changes in the body’s tissue.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to fluid retention, which may increase pressure in the carpal tunnel.
- Previous Wrist Injuries: Past injuries or fractures to the wrist may change its structure, leading to increased pressure on the median nerve.
- Age and Gender: Women are more likely to develop CTS than men, possibly due to a smaller carpal tunnel size. The condition is also more common in individuals between the ages of 40 and 60.
Understanding the causes and risk factors associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can help in managing and preventing the condition.
Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome involves a comprehensive assessment that includes:
- Medical History: A review of symptoms, activities, and any underlying health conditions that may be contributing to CTS.
- Physical Exam: The healthcare provider will check for signs of swelling, tenderness, and muscle weakness. Special tests, such as the Phalen’s maneuver or Tinel’s sign, may be used to provoke symptoms and confirm the diagnosis.
- Nerve Conduction Studies: These tests measure the speed and strength of electrical signals along the median nerve to determine the extent of nerve compression.
- Ultrasound or MRI: In some cases, imaging tests may be used to evaluate the structure of the wrist and detect any abnormalities that may be contributing to CTS.
An accurate diagnosis helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be debilitating, several treatment options can effectively manage symptoms and help prevent further nerve damage.
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
For individuals with mild to moderate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, non-surgical treatments may provide relief:
- Wrist Splints: Wearing a wrist splint, particularly at night, can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve and alleviating symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve wrist mobility and relieve pressure on the carpal tunnel.
- Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Corticosteroid injections may also be administered to reduce inflammation and swelling in the wrist.
- Ergonomic Adjustments: Making changes to workstations, such as adjusting the height of a desk or using an ergonomic keyboard, can help minimize strain on the wrist and prevent further damage.
- Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding repetitive hand movements, taking frequent breaks, and incorporating stretches into daily routines can help reduce symptoms and prevent worsening of CTS.
2. Surgical Treatment
If conservative treatments do not provide relief, or if the condition is severe, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the median nerve. Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery is a common procedure in which the surgeon cuts the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve, increasing space in the carpal tunnel.
- Open Surgery: The surgeon makes a small incision in the wrist to access and cut the ligament.
- Endoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive approach using small incisions and a camera to guide the procedure.
Surgery is generally effective in providing long-term relief from symptoms, although recovery time may vary.
Why Choose Our Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Services?
- Comprehensive Care
We offer a full spectrum of care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, from conservative treatments like wrist splints and therapy to advanced surgical options. - Personalized Treatment Plans
Our team works closely with each patient to develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses their unique needs and symptoms. - Expert Specialists
Our team consists of experienced neurologists, orthopedic surgeons, and physical therapists who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. - Minimally Invasive Options
We offer minimally invasive procedures that can reduce recovery time and improve outcomes for patients requiring surgery.
Contact Us for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Care
If you are experiencing symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or need assistance in managing the condition, contact us today. Our clinic is dedicated to providing expert care and support to help you regain mobility, reduce pain, and improve your quality of life. Let us help you find relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and get back to doing the things you love.
