What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition arising from the median nerve of the wrist. The nerve becomes compressed or traumatized where it travels through the carpal tunnel. Causes can vary and are not always fully understood. What is understood is that it is painful!
The good news is that there are a number of treatments to successfully treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment starts with a proper and thorough examination to determine the most appropriate method to address the problem and to confirm that the problem is, in fact, carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms
Symptoms typically start gradually and progressively worsen. Common symptoms include:
- Tingling or numbness in your fingers or hand
- Decreased pinch strength
- Pain radiating from the wrist
Symptoms are frequently first noticed during sleep or after waking up in the morning. As the condition worsens, tingling, numbness, pain, and decreased strength may occur in the day. In untreated cases, the muscles at the base of the thumb may waste away.
If your symptoms persist, and especially if they affect your regular activities and sleep patterns, you need to be seen. Untreated, permanent muscle and nerve damage can definitely occur.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Other conditions can mimic carpal tunnel syndrome, so it’s important to get a proper and thorough diagnosis prior to treatment. Diagnosis can often be given at the first office visit.
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination. Occasionally laboratory tests, x-rays, electrodiagnostic tests, ultrasounds, and MRIs are necessary.
Treatment includes both non-operative and surgical options. This depends on the severity of the condition and how long it has persisted. Non-operative treatment could include medication, splinting, hand therapy, ergonomic modifications, and lifestyle changes.
Dr. Asif is renowned for his surgical ability and for his judgment on when to first try non-surgical options.
