Carpal tunnel syndrome is a frequent ailment that causes hand and arm discomfort, numbness, and tingling. This condition occurs when one of the primary nerves to the hand (median nerve) is tightened or compressed as it passes across the wrist. This condition worsens over time in most individuals; therefore, early diagnosis and therapy are critical. Modest treatments such as wearing a wrist splint or avoiding specific activities can frequently reduce symptoms. Continued pressure on the median nerve, on the other hand, might result in nerve injury and worsened symptoms. Some patients can benefit from orthopedic surgery in West Chester to relieve pressure on the median nerve to avoid lasting injury.

Understanding carpal tunnel syndrome

This condition occurs when the median nerve is squeezed as it passes through the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a small passageway enclosed by bones and ligaments on the palm side of your wrist. The median nerve supplies sensory and motor activities to the thumb and three middle fingers. If it gets crushed or irritated, you may have symptoms.

The early symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms usually start slowly, with burning, stiffness, throbbing, or pain. You might feel it in the thumb and other fingers but not in your middle finger. The weird sensation may also spread up your forearm. Symptoms frequently begin at night. Most people sleep with their wrists bent, putting pressure on the median nerve. You might wake up with the urge to shake your hands. As your disease worsens, you may begin to feel symptoms during the day. Carpal tunnel is common when you are doing something that requires you to bend your wrist up or down for an extended period, such as driving, reading a book, or using your phone.

In what way is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

Your physician will review your medical history and do a physical assessment of you. They can advise you to undertake electrodiagnostic nerve tests, which are the most accurate way of diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. Electrodiagnostic tests activate the muscles and nerves in your hand to assess their functionality.

Recovery

The clinician will advise you to lift your hand above your heart and move your fingers immediately after surgery to reduce swelling and hardness. After your surgery, you should expect some discomfort, swelling, and stiffness. Minor pain in your palm can continue for several weeks to months. Grip and pinch strength usually return about 2-3 months after surgery. Suppose the condition of your median nerve was bad before surgery, although grip and pinch strength may not recover for roughly 6-12 months. You may have to use a splint or wrist brace for a few weeks. Nevertheless, you will be allowed to use your hand for light activities, taking care to prevent significant discomfort. Driving, self-care activities, and light lifting and grasping may be permitted immediately after surgery.

Sometimes, carpal tunnel syndrome can relapse, but this is unlikely. Call Brian Rottinghaus, or book online if you need additional treatment or surgery.