Carpal tunnel syndrome can make performing normal activities difficult. Symptoms tend to worsen over time if left untreated. Top surgeon Dr. Gregory Dumanian of Northwestern Plastic Surgery discusses home and surgical remedies for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a half-inch wide passageway in the wrist. Small carpal bones form the tunnel’s sides and bottom. The top of the tunnel consists of the transverse carpal ligament, a strong band of connective tissue.
The median nerve, one of the hand’s primary nerves, runs from the neck to the forearm and passes through the carpal tunnel. The median nerve controls feeling in all but the pinky finger, and controls muscles in the thumb’s base. The flexor tendons, responsible for finger bending, also pass through the carpal tunnel.
Carpal tunnel syndrome results from a pinched nerve in the wrist caused by swelling of the tissues in the tunnel. One or both hands are affected. Long-term repetitive tasks, such as typing, using power tools or playing vibrating musical instruments, may trigger it. There is a genetic component, as some patients may inherit small carpal tunnels, making them more susceptible to the condition.
Besides pain, symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling and weakness.
Early Treatment
If carpal tunnel system is caught in its earliest stages, you may be able to address the problem on your own by taking frequent breaks to rest your hands, using ice packs for swelling reduction and trying to avoid activities that exacerbate the problem.
Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen or ibuprofen can relieve pain temporarily. Do not take these medications for more than a few days. Topical pain medications can also provide relief.
Wrist Splinting
Splinting the wrists when sleeping can relieve pressure. For many, wrist splinting at night allows them to work comfortably during the day. Using splints while performing repetitive tasks is also helpful.
Corticosteroids
If the discomfort persists after using home remedies, visit your doctor. Numerous diagnostic tests, including X-rays, ultrasounds and MRIs, can determine whether carpal tunnel syndrome is the culprit.
Injections of corticosteroids are used for diagnosis and pain relief. In the latter case, the effects are often temporary.
Surgery
If symptoms are severe and do not improve with other treatments, surgery may prove necessary. Dr. Dumanian prefers endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery over open surgery, as it hurts less and has a quicker recovery. Carpal tunnel surgery is designed to remove nerve pressure by cutting the transverse carpal ligament so that the size of the tunnel increases. Carpal tunnel releases are conducted on an outpatient basis.
Full recovery from surgery may take several weeks to a few months.
Contact Us
If you have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome that do not respond to home remedies, contact Dr. Gregory Dumanian at Northwestern Plastic Surgery and schedule a consultation.