When You Show Signs Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Surgical Treatment When Conservative Methods Don't Work

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Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused when the median nerve gets compressed as it travels over your carpal bones, which is the area on the front of your wrists. This can be caused from an injury, increased inflammation in the area, or from repetitive strain. Carpal tunnel syndrome can be very painful to the sufferer. While instant tingling or numbness in one arm is a medical emergency, tingling that comes on slowly is more likely a problem with your carpal tunnel. You may find that your hands are starting to feel weak, or that you are dropping things all of the time. You can try rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medications at home to see if this resolves the problem. If your symptoms aren't relieved after a week or two, it's time to call your doctor for an evaluation.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

In addition to tingling or numbness in one or both hands, you may also feel pain in your hands that won't go away. Some people develop almost complete numbness in their fingers or hand over time, and have difficulty using their hands normally. Many patients report having trouble with basic hand movements, and they have difficulty making a pinching motion with their thumb and pointer finger.

Conservative Treatment Methods

Your doctor may suggest a period of two weeks to wait and see if the pain will go away with rest and at home treatment. If your symptoms persist, or they get worse, it's time to meet with an orthopedic specialist to talk about your concerns. While an orthopedist may also suggest waiting for a few weeks longer, they will be able to complete a surgical procedure to relieve your pain if nothing at home works.

Surgical Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

When you get carpal tunnel surgery to relieve pressure on your median nerve, the orthopedic surgeon will make a small incision at the bottom of the palm of your hand. The surgeon will then cut your transverse carpal ligament to give your median nerve more room. This treatment is used for patients who have not responded to conservative treatment and who are at risk for permanent nerve damage if surgery isn't done.

If you are suffering from hand and wrist pain, or you are having trouble holding on to objects, it's time to have your hands and wrists evaluated by an orthopedic specialist. While you can try conservative remedies at home, if they don't work, it's time to see your doctor. For more information, contact a business such as Town Center Orthopaedic Associates, P.C.


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