|
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
A Common Disorder
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common disorder. Though it affects men and women equally overall, it occurs with higher frequency in individuals with thyroid disorders and diabetes. Many pregnant women also develop carpal tunnel syndrome, especially during the middle and later stages of pregnancy. Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you have carpal tunnel syndrome, the most common symptom you are likely to experience is intermittent numbness in your hand. Because the numbness is most pronounced in your index and long fingers, you may find it difficult to grasp objects. Or, if the numbness occurs at night, it may awaken you from sleep. Carpal tunnel syndrome also can produce pain that begins in your wrist and spreads to your arm. Rubbing or shaking your hand brings only temporary relief. Seeking Treatment
Though carpal tunnel syndrome will occasionally clear up without medical intervention, you may find that the pain and numbness become worse over time. Without treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome can even lead to permanent damage of the median nerve. For this reason, it is advisable to seek treatment by an orthopedic physician when you begin to experience symptoms. To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, your physician will conduct a physical examination of the affected area and ask you about your symptoms. An x-ray of the wrist may also be required to determine the degree of compression of the median nerve. If your physician determines that you have carpal tunnel syndrome, he or she will recommend a treatment plan designed to reduce compression on the nerve, which can help to relieve your symptoms. In most cases, treatment will involve the use of a splint worn at night to stabilize the wrist and control swelling. Anti-inflammatory medications may also be recommended. In most people, carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated successfully without surgery. For a minority of patient’s, however, splinting and use of medications are not effective in controlling symptoms. In these cases, a surgical procedure called carpal tunnel release may be necessary. Carpal Tunnel Release
During carpal tunnel release, the surgeon will cut a ligament called the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. This procedure creates more room for the median nerve to pass through the wrist. Carpal tunnel release can be performed using a traditional "open" approach. Or, your doctor may perform carpal tunnel release surgery using a less invasive, arthroscopic method. During arthroscopic surgery, the physician inserts a miniature video camera (called an arthroscope) and operating instruments through small incisions in the wrist and palm. The camera allows the physician to view his work on the monitor, while he uses the small operating instruments to cut the transverse carpal ligament. Because there are advantages and disadvantages to both types of carpal tunnel surgery, your orthopedic surgeon can recommend the option that is best for you. Recovery from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Most patients who seek early treatment for this condition can be treated effectively with nonsurgical methods. For those who require surgery, the outlook is also very favorable. In the vast majority of people, surgery provides permanent relief from symptoms. Furthermore, recovery from surgery is quick with most patients returning to their normal activities within a few weeks. If you develop carpal tunnel syndrome in one wrist, you have a higher risk of developing the condition in the other wrist as well. If you experience numbness, tingling or weakness in your hands, it is advisable to seek early medical intervention from a physician who is experienced in managing carpal tunnel syndrome.
|
