Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of people each year, causing discomfort and sometimes disabling pain in the hand and wrist. This pressure on the nerve can lead to a range of symptoms that impact daily activities, including work, sports, and hobbies.
If you are experiencing wrist pain or suspect you might have carpal tunnel syndrome, Precision Orthopaedic Specialties can help. Contact one of our four convenient locations in Northeast Ohio today!
People with carpal tunnel syndrome often experience symptoms gradually. It can begin as occasional tingling, numbness, or weakness in the hand and fingers, particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, which are all controlled by the median nerve. Over time, these sensations can worsen, leading to persistent pain or weakness. In severe cases, it may even become difficult to grasp objects or perform everyday tasks.
The discomfort usually intensifies after prolonged activities that involve bending the wrist, such as typing, playing sports, or using tools. This is because flexing the wrist can further compress the median nerve, exacerbating the symptoms.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by repetitive movements that strain the wrist and hand, like typing on a keyboard, playing musical instruments, or using hand tools. However, several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing this condition:
Rheumatoid arthritis can also increase swelling in the wrist area, though it is not a focus of treatment at Precision Orthopaedic Specialties.
If you notice persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand, especially during the night or after activities, it may be time to see a doctor. Carpal tunnel symptoms can progress over time, and early treatment is key to preventing permanent nerve damage.
To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, a physician will evaluate your symptoms and perform a physical exam. The Tinel’s sign or Phalen’s test, which involves holding your wrist in a flexed position to assess for discomfort, are common diagnostic tools.
In some cases, nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) may be ordered to measure how well your median nerve is functioning. These tests help confirm a diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.
There are several treatments available to manage and relieve carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, ranging from conservative methods to surgical options. Your treatment will depend on the severity of your symptoms and how much they impact your daily life.
Recovery from carpal tunnel treatment depends on the method used. For non-surgical treatments, improvement may be gradual over weeks to months, while recovery from carpal tunnel release surgery typically takes a few weeks.
After surgery, physical therapy or exercises to strengthen the hand and improve mobility are often recommended. Nerve gliding exercises, which help the median nerve move freely within the carpal tunnel, can also speed up recovery and prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from recurring.
With proper treatment and care, most people experience a significant reduction in symptoms and are able to return to their regular activities, including sports and work. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term nerve damage.
Don’t let carpal tunnel syndrome limit your daily life. Precision Orthopaedic Specialties is here to help you get back to the activities you love, whether you’re an athlete or simply dealing with wrist pain from work. Our experienced specialists provide comprehensive care, from diagnosis to treatment, including carpal tunnel release surgery if needed.
Schedule an appointment at one of our four locations in Northeastern Ohio, and start your path to relief today!
Medically reviewed by Laszlo S. Harmat, D.O.
Physicians
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