Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Recovery
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) affects millions of people across the United States, causing discomfort in the hands and wrists. If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hands, you may be suffering from this condition. Let’s break down what Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is, its symptoms, causes, how it is diagnosed, and treatment options.
Symptoms: What Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Feel Like?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome often starts with numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. People frequently describe it as a “pins-and-needles” sensation or their hands “falling asleep.” The pinky finger usually is not affected. Many people notice these sensations at night, often waking up and needing to shake their hands to relieve the discomfort. Other symptoms include:
- A feeling like your hand is swollen or under pressure
- Electric shock-like sensations in the fingers or running up the arm
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks, like buttoning clothes or picking up small objects
- Weakness in the hands, leading to dropping things
- If left untreated, muscle loss at the base of the thumb
Causes: Why Does Carpal Tunnel Happen?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome happens when the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, gets compressed. The wrist has a narrow passageway called the “carpal tunnel,” and any swelling or narrowing in this area can squeeze the nerve, leading to symptoms. A few key factors can contribute to this:
Anatomical Factors
Some people naturally have smaller carpal tunnels, making them more prone to CTS. A wrist injury, like a fracture, or arthritis, which can reduce the space in the tunnel, may also lead to the condition. Women tend to develop Carpal Tunnel Syndrome more frequently than men.
Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can raise the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. These include:
- Diabetes
- Thyroid disorders
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Obesity
- Smoking
Activity Factors
Certain repetitive wrist movements or prolonged positions can strain the wrist and contribute to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Jobs that involve gripping, vibrating tools, or awkward wrist positions can increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Despite common belief, studies have not conclusively linked computer use to CTS.
Evaluation: How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?
If you suspect you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, a doctor at Orthopedic Institute in Sioux Falls will begin by asking about your symptoms and performing a physical exam. They may tap on your wrist or ask you to bend your wrist to see if these movements cause symptoms. Depending on your case, other tests might be used to confirm the diagnosis:
- X-rays: These can check for other causes like arthritis.
- Ultrasound: This helps visualize the tendons and nerves in your wrist, and can guide treatments like cortisone injections.
- Electrodiagnostic Tests: These tests, like nerve conduction studies or electromyograms (EMG), measure how well your nerves are functioning and can confirm if the median nerve is compressed.
Treatment: What Are the Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The good news is that there are several ways to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, both non-surgical and surgical.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Wrist Splinting: Wearing a wrist splint at night can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the nerve.
- Activity Changes: Taking breaks, stretching, and avoiding repetitive wrist movements can help manage symptoms.
- Physical Therapy: Exercises that promote nerve gliding and stretching can be beneficial.
- Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, may reduce discomfort, though they do not treat the underlying cause.
- Corticosteroid Injections: Steroid injections can reduce swelling and inflammation, offering temporary relief.
Feeling anxious about an injection?
Getting the care you need should not be stressful. Orthopedic Institute now offers nitrous oxide to help you relax during your procedure. Ask your provider today if nitrous oxide could be right for you.
Surgical Treatment
If symptoms persist or worsen, surgery may be necessary. Carpal Tunnel Release surgery involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve to create more space. This can be done with a small incision or endoscopically (using a tiny camera). At Orthopedic Institute in Sioux Falls, our expert surgeons offer this minimally invasive procedure, which allows patients to go home the same day.
Recovery: What Can You Expect?
A wrist fracture typically takes about six weeks to heal, but some injuries may require a longer recovery, depending on their severity. Here is what you can expect:
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen help, but sometimes stronger prescription medications are needed after surgery.
- Therapy: Physical therapy is important after the cast or splint is removed to help regain strength and mobility.
- Activity Restrictions: During recovery, it is important to avoid heavy lifting or putting too much pressure on your wrist.
At Orthopedic Institute, our team in Sioux Falls will guide you through each step of your recovery. We help you gradually get back to your normal activities.