Carpal Tunnel Treatment

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that occurs as a result of compression of the median nerve in a narrow canal called the carpal tunnel in the wrist area. The carpal tunnel is a canal formed by the ligaments and bones in the wrist, and some tendons pass through it along with the median nerve.

In carpal tunnel syndrome, a problem or inflammation in the structures inside the carpal tunnel narrows the tunnel and compresses the median nerve. This compression affects the normal function of the median nerve and causes a variety of symptoms.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can include:

1. Tingling, numbness or burning sensation in hands and fingers.

2. Weakness or loss of function in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and half pinky finger.

3. Loss of hand sensation or decreased sense of touch.

4. Pain or discomfort in the wrist or hand.

5. Weakness or difficulty in holding the wrist or hand.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is generally associated with factors such as prolonged and repetitive wrist movements, intense use of hands (especially computer use), pregnancy, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis. In addition, genetic predisposition may be among the risk factors.

Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome varies depending on the severity and duration of the symptoms and the patient's condition. Treatment options may include rest, using wrist splints, doing wrist and hand exercises, using pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections, or surgery. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms, reducing compression of the median nerve, and restoring hand function. Treatment options should be determined by a healthcare professional.

Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome varies depending on the severity and duration of the symptoms and the patient's condition. Here are some of the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome treatment options:

1. Rest and Activity Change: To relieve the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it is important to rest your wrist and avoid overuse. Avoiding prolonged or repetitive wrist movements, making activity adjustments, and creating more ergonomic work environments can help improve symptoms.

2. Wrist Splints: Wrist splints can relieve symptoms by limiting and supporting movement of the wrist. A wrist splint worn overnight can help reduce symptoms by maintaining wrist position during sleep.

3. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy uses treatment modalities that include specific exercises, wrist mobilization and muscle relaxation techniques to relieve the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and strengthen the wrist and hand muscles. Your physical therapist will determine the most appropriate treatment plan for you.

4. Drug Treatment: Pain relievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or corticosteroid injections may be used to relieve symptoms. Medication can provide temporary relief to control symptoms and reduce inflammation.

5. Surgical Intervention: When symptoms are severe and other treatment options have not been effective, surgical intervention may be considered. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome surgery is done to loosen the ligaments that are pinching the median nerve or to widen the narrowed part of the carpal tunnel. Post-surgical rehabilitation and wrist exercises can help restore hand function.

Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome focuses on the improvement of symptoms and restoration of hand function. A healthcare professional will evaluate your symptoms, recommend appropriate treatment options, and create a treatment plan. The treatment process should be carried out with regular follow-up and cooperation.