When does one require surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome?

When the symptoms progress and the pain is continuous, surgery may be the only option. Today, the surgery can be accomplished using a camera and a very small incision. However, surgery should never be the first choice of carpal tunnel. The surgery is purely elective and should only take place after other non-surgical interventions have failed. Overall, the results of surgery are horrible to say the least. Always get a second opinion and after that, go for a non-surgical alternative.

Can wrist splints help carpal tunnel syndrome?

Yes, Wrist splints can help relieve the pain while one sleeps. Splinting is ideal for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms. Most individuals need some type of medications to relieve the pain.

I have been told I have carpal tunnel syndrome. my doctor says I need surgery. Can you advise?

Surgery is never the first choice treatment for carpal tunnel. In addition, the results of surgery SUCK. Those individuals who have minor symptoms should discontinue whatever they are doing which arouses their symptoms. This includes taking break from repetitive work and applying cold packs to reduce the swelling on the wrist. The other options include wrist splints, pain medications, injection of corticosteroids and surgery.

How is the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome made?

The diagnosis of carpal tunnel requires a couple of tests to determine where exactly the nerve is being compressed. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, you will be referred to a surgeon, physical therapist or a neurologist.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

There are many causes of carpal tunnel syndrome and include any condition that will narrow the carpal tunnel. Such conditions include:

         

-         rheumatoid arthritis

-         menopause

-         diabetes

-         pregnancy (all these conditions lead to fluid buildup and narrow the tunnel , thus compressing the nerve)

-         repetitive use or injury of the wrist

-         bad luck is often a cause of many medical disorders

What are typical features of carpal tunnel syndrome?

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually include the following:

-         tingling or numbness in the middle three fingers. These symptoms may occur while holding a phone or a grocery bag. Many people shake their hands to relieve the symptoms

-         pain, which radiates to the wrist and arm, also occurs as the disease progresses. The pain often worsens after repetitive use

-         weakness of the hands and a tendency to drop objects occurs as the disease worsens

-         when the disease is most advanced, most individuals will have atrophy of the muscles in the hand and continued numbness in the middle 3 fingers