Did you know that you can end up with permanent nerve damage if you wait too long to treat carpal tunnel syndrome? The experienced physicians at All Neurological Services provide the full range of treatments, from noninvasive to skilled surgery when needed. To schedule an appointment, book online or call the nearest office today. There are locations in Brooklyn, New York, and in Cliffside Park, New Jersey.
Q&A
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when you have a compressed median nerve. The median nerve runs down your arm and into your hand, where it provides feeling and controls muscle movement in your forearm, palm, thumb, pointer finger, middle finger, and part of your ring finger.
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The nerve, along with numerous tendons, travels through a narrow area in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. If any of the nerves or tendons, or the ligament that forms part of the carpal tunnel become inflamed or enlarged, you end up with a pinched median nerve.
Q&A
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome most often develops due to:
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Repetitive use
Repeating the same movements, such as typing, texting, or playing an instrument, causes irritation and inflammation in the nerve and tendons.
Wrist flexion and extension
Performing manual activities with your wrist bent up or down places more pressure on the nerve.
Wrist injuries
Any injury that affects the bones or soft tissues in your wrist can compress the median nerve.
Health conditions
You’re more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome if you have diabetes, an inflammatory condition like rheumatoid arthritis, or a thyroid condition.
What symptoms develop if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome usually develops gradually, so you may not notice your symptoms at first. As they get progressively worse, you experience:
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Wrist and hand pain
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Hand, thumb, or finger weakness
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Electric-shock sensation in your wrist and hand
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Tingling or burning in your thumb or first three fingers
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Numbness in your hand or fingers
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Feeling like your fingers are swollen when they’re not
As weakness or numbness appears, you may also have a hard time holding items like a pen or silverware.
Q&A
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is treatable with conservative therapies, but only when caught at an early stage. If you postpone treatment, the nerve can suffer permanent damage.
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Conservative treatment may include any of the following:
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Immobilizing your wrist using specialized splints
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Changing your activities to reduce stress on the tendons
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Improving ergonomics to avoid bending your wrists
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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
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Steroid injection within the carpal tunnel
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When performing steroid injections, All Neurological Services adheres to the strictest United States guidelines.
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If your carpal tunnel syndrome is severe or your symptoms don’t improve with conservative treatments, your provider may recommend a simple outpatient surgery to release the tissues pressing on your nerves.
If you notice any symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, call All Neurological Services, or schedule an appointment online today.