Carpal Tunnel Treatment

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition where pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, causes symptoms like pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and fingers.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is commonly caused by repetitive motions that stress the wrist, such as typing, using a computer mouse, or performing assembly-line work. These repetitive movements can lead to swelling or irritation of the tendons in the carpal tunnel, increasing pressure on the median nerve. Other contributing factors include:

• Genetics: A naturally smaller carpal tunnel may predispose individuals to CTS.
  
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes can lead to fluid retention, increasing pressure on the median nerve.
• Health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, and thyroid dysfunction can increase the risk of CTS.

The symptoms of CTS typically begin gradually and may include:

• Numbness or tingling: Especially in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers.
  
• Pain: Pain may radiate from the wrist into the arm, shoulder, or neck, and is often worse at night.
  
• Weakness: Difficulty gripping or holding objects due to muscle weakness in the hand.
• Clumsiness: A tendency to drop things, especially during activities requiring fine motor skills.

Treatment options depend on the severity of the condition:

• Non-surgical treatments:
  
• • Wrist splints: Worn at night to keep the wrist in a neutral position and relieve pressure on the nerve.
    
  • Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce inflammation and pain. Corticosteroid injections into the carpal tunnel can also provide temporary relief.
    
  • Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the wrist and improve flexibility may help reduce symptoms.

• Surgical treatments: Carpal tunnel release surgery is considered when symptoms are severe or do not respond to conservative treatments. This procedure involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
  

While Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may not always be preventable, certain steps can help reduce the risk:

• Ergonomic adjustments: Ensure that workstations are set up to support proper wrist posture and minimize strain.
  
• Take frequent breaks: Regularly stretch your wrists and hands, especially during repetitive tasks.
• Use proper techniques: When typing or using a mouse, keep wrists straight, and avoid excessive bending or twisting.

A diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is made through a combination of:

• Physical Examination: The doctor may use tests like Tinel’s sign (tapping on the wrist to see if it triggers symptoms) or Phalen’s maneuver (holding the wrist in a flexed position to induce symptoms).
  
• Nerve Conduction Study: Measures the speed at which electrical impulses travel through the median nerve to assess the extent of nerve damage.
• Electromyography (EMG): Tests the electrical activity in muscles to detect nerve damage or muscle dysfunction.

Surgery may be required if symptoms are severe and other treatments don’t work. The most common surgical procedure is carpal tunnel release, which relieves pressure on the median nerve.

Recovery time varies based on the individual and the type of surgery performed. Generally:

• Open surgery: Recovery may take 6 to 8 weeks for light activities, with full recovery taking up to 6 months for more demanding tasks.
• Endoscopic surgery: The recovery is usually quicker, with many patients resuming light activities within 2 to 3 weeks. Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the wrist may be recommended to improve function and reduce scar tissue.

Yes, while CTS often affects one hand, it can occur in both hands, especially in cases related to systemic conditions like diabetes.

Untreated CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage, muscle weakness, loss of hand function, and difficulty performing everyday tasks.

While CTS is not a form of arthritis, inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of developing CTS due to swelling in the wrist.

Yes, hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause fluid retention, which increases pressure on the median nerve and leads to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This condition, often referred to as gestational CTS, is usually temporary and resolves after childbirth. 

However, some women may experience lingering symptoms after pregnancy. Treatment may include wrist splints, avoiding certain movements, and gentle exercises to relieve pressure.