Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by compression of the Median nerve in the wrist. The actual carpal tunnel structure is a narrow passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. This structure protects the nerve, as well as the tendons tasked with bending the fingers. Patients suffering from this condition may experience tingling, numbness, pain and hand weakness.
Patients with mild symptoms may ease their discomfort by avoiding certain activities, taking frequent hand breaks, and using cold packs to minimize swelling. If these techniques are not effective, a physician can advise more intensive non-surgical treatments, such as:
- Wrist Splinting involves the use of a splint to stabilize the wrist and to minimize night time numbness and tingling.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSADs) like Motrin and Advil may be used to alleviate pain.
- Corticosteroids may be injected in the carpal tunnel to reduce the swelling and the inflammation, which alleviates pressure on the median nerve.
Sometimes even in patients who have carefully followed nonsurgical therapy, symptoms can become debilitating and make daily activities more difficult. If nerve damage becomes a concern, surgical treatment is indicated to transect the ligament and release the median nerve (Carpal Tunnel Release). After surgery the ligament heals back together, but with enough space for the nerve.
To schedule a consultation, please call 631-690-9080.
