One of the most common orthopedic conditions that people suffer from, carpal tunnel syndrome, affects the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common medical condition that causes pain and tingling in the hand or arm. The condition develops when the median nerve that runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist is squeezed or compressed. When this happens, patients often feel pain, numbness, burning, and tingling in the forearm. It is also common to experience weakness in the affected arm.
Causes
Carpal tunnel syndrome is most often caused by overuse. This refers to making the same movements repeatedly, which exhausts the arm. Repetitive movements can aggravate the tendons in wrist, which can cause unpleasant symptoms.
There are a lot of professions that garner repetitive movements. Examples include carpenters, construction workers, musicians, typists, and plumbers. It is also possible to develop carpal tunnel syndrome through hobbies, such as knitting, painting, and writing.
You may also have a higher risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome if you have arthritis or a hereditary predisposition. If this is the case, you can work with a doctor to take precautions and steps to reduce your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome in the future.
Treatments
There are many treatments that can help bring relief from carpal tunnel syndrome. The most common and effective treatments include:
- Bracing – Bracing can help bring you relief by controlling your wrist’s movements while you rest. Wearing a brace while you sleep can prevent it from bending, which can take pressure off the median nerve.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) – These medications help bring temporary relief from pain. If over-the-counter medications do not bring relief, your doctor may recommend stronger prescription medications.
- Rest – A lot of people find relief from carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms after resting. This involves limiting your daily activities that aggravate symptoms and taking frequent breaks when using the hands.
- Physical therapy – Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen your hand, wrist, and arm. This can help you heal and prevent further aggravation to the median nerve.
- Steroid injections – Steroid injections contain a strong anti-inflammatory agent that can help bring relief. While the treatment offers temporary relief, you can get steroid injections a few times a year for continuous relief.
- Surgery – When other treatments do not work, your doctor may recommend surgery. There are a few procedures that can be done to help relieve you of carpal tunnel syndrome. Examples include: open carpal tunnel release and endoscopic carpal tunnel release.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Care in Maryland
If you are looking for Maryland’s premier provider of upper extremity orthopedic care, trust Greater Chesapeake Hand to Shoulder. With our expert hand surgeons, we can provide you with high quality care to treat the complex nature of your hand or upper extremity medical concerns. Our team is board-certified and fellowship surgeons will provide you with the best orthopedic care available.
Call us at (410) 296-6232, and schedule an appointment today. You can also request an appointment online. We look forward to serving you.
