Is a common condition affecting at least 1% of the U.S. Population, it is the result of too much pressure on the median nerve. Tingling, numbness and pain are the most common symptoms and if untreated, CTS may lead to nerve and muscle damage. Numbness, tingling and pain are very common symptoms. These symptoms usually include the thumb, index and long fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome should be treated aggressively, to avoid permanent nerve and/or muscle damage.
There are several steps you can take to prevent CTS:
Avoid using your wrist in a bent, twisted or an extended position for long periods of time. Try, as often as possible, to keep the wrist in a straight or neutral position. Minimize repetition; try to avoid repetitive hand tasks or holding objects for extended periods of time. Give your wrist time to recover. When using tools like hammers and screwdrivers, slow down and try not to apply any more force than necessary to get the job done. Allowing time for your wrist to recover will help; better yet, use power tools that will reduce the amount of force required by your hands.
CTS medical treatments
Splints - night and day splints are designed to keep your wrist in the neutral position. This may relieve pressure in the carpal tunnel and may relieve or prevent your symptoms from getting worse.
Anti inflammatory medications are used to reduce swelling and to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Cortisone injections; generally one injection may provide relief for a period of time; injections may have to be repeated if symptoms persist.
There are several steps you can take to prevent CTS:
Avoid using your wrist in a bent, twisted or an extended position for long periods of time. Try, as often as possible, to keep the wrist in a straight or neutral position. Minimize repetition; try to avoid repetitive hand tasks or holding objects for extended periods of time. Give your wrist time to recover. When using tools like hammers and screwdrivers, slow down and try not to apply any more force than necessary to get the job done. Allowing time for your wrist to recover will help; better yet, use power tools that will reduce the amount of force required by your hands.
CTS medical treatments
Splints -
Anti inflammatory medications are used to reduce swelling and to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Cortisone injections; generally one injection may provide relief for a period of time; injections may have to be repeated if symptoms persist.
1 centimeter incision
