What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) results from compression of your hand’s median nerve. Squeezing this nerve produces painful symptoms that include:
- A tingling sensation in the fingers
- Weakness in the hand or fingers
- Traveling pain from the forearm to shoulder
- A radiating shock-like feeling in the fingers
Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Many people believe carpal tunnel syndrome only affects office workers and piano players. Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop from repetitive motions. But, other things can put you at risk. Rheumatoid arthritis, Diabetes, Hypothyroidism, and pregnancy have links to CTS. But, the main culprit is any form of pressure on the median nerve.
CTS Diagnosis
A healthcare professional can determine if you have carpal tunnel syndrome. Your doctor performs an evaluation, testing your wrists and hands in several ways.
These tests gauge how well the median nerve performs and the severity of your carpal tunnel.
You also have extra testing, such as:
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
- MRI
- Nerve conduction study
Non-Surgical Treatment
A common belief is that only surgery can treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Simple alternatives usually help. Wearing a brace at night, taking anti-inflammatory medication, or steroid injections are effective. Also, you can modify your activities and change your wrist position to treat CTS.
When You Should Consider Surgery
Surgery may give you relief if conservative methods are ineffective. But, at this point, your CTS symptoms may be severe enough to where surgery is the last resort to get relief.
Recovery From CTS surgery
The success rate for carpal tunnel surgery is over 90 percent. Yet, it takes time to recover from a Carpal Tunnel Syndrome procedure. Grip strength generally returns after three months. Tingling sensations usually begin improving the first few months after surgery. It’s vital to have a great support system around you during recovery. You may need help completing everyday tasks while you heal.
If you have questions about carpal tunnel syndrome, talk to Orthopedic Associates of Long Island. Call and schedule a consultation at 631.689.6698.
