Carpal tunnel syndrome develops upon compression of the median nerve, resulting in symptoms such as numbness, pain, tingling effects, and weakness in your hand and arm. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome in North Austin are usually present in all fingers except the pinky finger. It may develop due to different factors, including nerve-damaging conditions such as diabetes. This condition is also more common in women as they tend to have a smaller carpal tunnel than men. Since the problem causes muscle weakness, it may interfere with your usual activities.

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome ranges from conservative methods to surgical procedures, depending on how well you respond to treatment. You can do certain things at home during the early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome to minimize the symptoms. They include:

·         Take breaks to rest your hands when working.

·         Apply ice packs to minimize swelling

·         Restrain from activities that worsen the symptoms.

Non-surgical options

If diagnosed at its onset stages, non-surgical therapy can be effective for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome patients. The treatment methods include:

Corticosteroid

Corticosteroids can either be administered through injections or orally. For effective results, specialists use corticosteroid injections as oral corticosteroids are not as effective. Cortisone may help reduce the pain for most patients. It also minimizes swelling, which reduces pressure on the median nerve. Imaging tests such as an ultrasound act as a guide to ensure the doctor directs the needle at the right place.

Wrist splint

A splint offers support to the wrist and helps with symptoms of tingling and numbness. It is worn during the night, but its relieving effects can last even during the day. They are a good option if you are pregnant, as no medication is required.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

This involves the use of medications such as ibuprofen to help with pain caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. This treatment method offers short-term pain relief only and does not treat carpal tunnel syndrome.

Surgery

Surgery may be an option for patients with severe symptoms or those that do not respond to conservative methods. The goal of surgery is to relieve pressure off the median nerve. There are two different approaches that surgeons use while performing surgery which you will discuss during a consultation. They include:

Open surgery

For this technique, the surgeon makes an incision in the palm of your hand and, using surgical scissors, cuts off the ligament to free the median nerve.

Endoscopic surgery

During endoscopic surgery, your surgeon uses an endoscope to view the inside of your palm, cuts the ligament through an incision on your palm. Other times an ultrasound is used to guide the tool that cuts the ligament.

The skin usually heals after a few weeks, but the internal ligaments may take several months to grow back. Your doctor may advise that you refrain from forceful motions and only use the hand after healing.

For further questions about carpal tunnel syndrome, consult with your doctor today at Republic Spine and Pain.