Written by Mr Lehel Balint for Doctify
You’ve probably heard of this syndrome. Carpal tunnel is relatively common and can cause sufferers a great deal of pain. Many people put theirs down to repetitive movements but there are several other contributing factors.
Here to tell us more is Orthopaedic Surgeon, Mr Lehel Balint.
What actually is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common, painful, progressive condition that is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist area.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness and tingling sensation in all the fingers except little finger; pain and burning sensation in hand and wrist that may radiate up the arm and elbow; and weakness in hand with diminished grip strength.
What causes carpal tunnel?
Exact causes of the condition are not known. However, certain factors increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome and they include:
- congenital abnormalities,
- repetitive motion of hand and wrists
- fractures and sprains
- hormonal imbalance
- hypothyroidism
- rheumatoid arthritis
- diabetes
- obesity
- gout
- overactive pituitary gland
- the presence of a cyst or tumour in the canal
Are there any non-surgical treatment options?
Carpal tunnel syndrome may be treated using conservative approaches or surgery. The conservative treatments include:
- Treating underlying medical conditions
- Immobilization of the hand and wrist with a splint or wrist brace for 4-6 weeks
- Rest the hand for 2 weeks or more
- Ice packs to avoid swelling
- Avoid activities that tend to worsen the symptoms
- Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections
- Strengthening and stretching exercises once symptoms diminish
And the surgery?
If conservative treatment options fail to resolve the condition your surgeon may recommend surgical procedure.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated with carpal tunnel release surgery. This surgery involves up to a two inch incision in the palm and wrist area, whereas endoscopic surgery involves one or two half-an-inch incisions and the use of an endoscope.
During these surgeries, the transverse carpal ligament will be dissected to release the pressure on the median nerve and enlarge the carpal tunnel. Your surgeon will decide which options are best for you based on your general and medical conditions.
What is the recovery like?
Your surgeon may suggest you to practice certain post-operative procedures for better recovery and to avoid further complications.
- Elevate the hand above heart level to reduce swelling.
- A splint may be worn
- Ice packs to the surgical area to reduce swelling.
- Keep the surgical incision clean and dry. Cover the area with plastic wrap when bathing or showering.
- Physical therapy may be ordered to restore wrist strength.
- Eating a healthy diet and not smoking will promote healing
Are there any risks?
The majority of patients suffer no complications following carpal tunnel release surgery. However, some patients may suffer from pain, infections, scarring, and nerve damage causing weakness, paralysis, or loss of sensation and stiffness in the hand and wrist area.
