Dr BurkeWhat Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This nerve compression can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers, impacting daily activities and quality of life. Carpal tunnel syndrome often affects people who perform repetitive wrist and hand movements, such as typing or assembly line work. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide specialized care for carpal tunnel syndrome, offering both conservative and surgical treatment options to alleviate symptoms and improve hand function.
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed within the narrow carpal tunnel of the wrist. This compression leads to inflammation and restricts nerve function, affecting sensation and movement in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can worsen over time, leading to chronic pain, weakness, and even permanent nerve damage.
The condition is particularly common among individuals who frequently use their hands in repetitive motions, such as office workers, mechanics, or musicians.
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Several factors can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome, including lifestyle factors, physical strain, and genetic predisposition. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Repetitive Hand and Wrist Movements: Activities that involve prolonged or repetitive hand motions, such as typing or assembly line work, can increase pressure on the median nerve.
- Wrist Anatomy: Individuals with naturally smaller carpal tunnels may be more prone to nerve compression.
- Health Conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders can contribute to inflammation and increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Injury or Trauma: Wrist fractures or dislocations can alter the space within the carpal tunnel, leading to increased nerve pressure.
- Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause fluid retention and swelling in the wrist, contributing to temporary symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms typically begin gradually and may intensify over time. Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or Tingling: A tingling sensation or numbness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, is often felt and may worsen at night.
- Hand Weakness: Many individuals experience weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects or perform fine motor tasks.
- Pain and Discomfort: Pain may radiate from the wrist up into the forearm, particularly during activities involving hand and wrist movement.
- Fingers Falling Asleep: Symptoms like fingers "falling asleep" are common, especially after prolonged use of the hands or wrists.
- Difficulty Performing Tasks: Actions like holding a pen, using a phone, or grasping small items can become increasingly difficult due to the impact on hand function.
Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, our diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome includes a thorough assessment of symptoms, physical examination, and tests to determine nerve compression.
1. Physical Examination: Our specialists will evaluate the affected hand, checking for tenderness, muscle weakness, and the classic signs of nerve compression.
2. Electrodiagnostic Tests:
- Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): This test measures how quickly signals move along the median nerve, helping to confirm carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Electromyography (EMG): This test assesses the electrical activity in muscles, identifying areas of nerve compression or damage.
3. Imaging Tests:
- Ultrasound or MRI: Imaging may be used to visualize the structure of the wrist, detecting any abnormalities or sources of compression within the carpal tunnel.
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Treatment at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on relieving symptoms, restoring hand function, and preventing further nerve damage. Treatment options range from conservative care to surgical intervention, depending on the severity of the condition.
1. Non-Surgical Treatments:
- Wrist Splinting: Wearing a wrist splint, particularly at night, can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve.
- Activity Modification: Adjusting hand and wrist activities, such as taking breaks during repetitive tasks, can help alleviate symptoms.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
- Corticosteroid Injections: For more severe symptoms, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation around the median nerve.
2. Surgical Treatments:
- Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: In cases where symptoms are severe or non-surgical treatments are ineffective, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, creating more space and reducing pressure on the median nerve.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach.
- Non-Surgical Recovery: Patients undergoing non-surgical treatments can typically return to normal activities within weeks. Physical therapy exercises may be recommended to strengthen the hand and improve flexibility.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: After surgery, the wrist may need to be immobilized briefly, followed by rehabilitation exercises to restore strength and mobility. Most patients can resume normal activities within several weeks to months with proper recovery.
Why Choose Dr. Burke Orthopedics for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide expert care for carpal tunnel syndrome, offering personalized treatment options that fit each patient’s needs. With a team of skilled orthopedic specialists, advanced diagnostic tools, and tailored rehabilitation programs, we’re committed to helping patients regain hand function and live pain-free. Whether you’re experiencing mild symptoms or require surgical intervention, Dr. Burke Orthopedics is here to guide you through every step of recovery.