Carpal Tunnel Specialist

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that typically brings pain and unusual sensations in your hand or wrist. It occurs when pressure is placed on your median nerve, which extends from the upper portion of your arm down through your wrist and into your hand. 

Your median nerve enables sensation on the palm side of your thumb and all of your fingers except your little finger. This nerve also conducts the signals necessary for the motor function of your thumb.  

A small channel in your wrist called your carpal tunnel protects the median nerve. This passageway contains the median nerve and the tendons that move your fingers. Anything that causes swelling, inflammation, or increased pressure in the carpal tunnel such as a wrist fracture, rheumatoid arthritis, repetitive stress, or a sleeping position can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.   

How do I know if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?  

Knowing what to look for can help you decide when to seek treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Some of the more common symptoms include:

• Tingling, itching, or burning sensations in your palm, thumb, or index and middle fingers
• Shock-like sensations that move through your fingers
• Tingling sensations that move up into your arm
• Sensation of weakness in your hands

In the more advanced stages, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause loss of muscle tissue as well as nerve damage. 

What are the treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome?

One of the best ways to treat mild cases of carpal tunnel syndrome is by wearing a wrist splint at night. This device prevents you from moving your wrist into positions that place pressure on your median nerve. 

There are also stretches you can do to increase flexibility in your hands and wrists, which can help reduce pain. If your occupation or hobbies cause you to move your wrists or hands in detrimental ways, you can adjust your habits and routines to reduce the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. 

Once the condition has advanced, medication can reduce pain and inflammation. There are over-the-counter drugs that offer relief, as well as prescription options. Some medications are injected directly into your wrist to reduce swelling. 

For some, surgical intervention is the only way to achieve lasting relief from carpal tunnel syndrome. Your orthopaedic specialist at New Braunfels Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine can divide the ligamentous roof of the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the median nerve. 

Wrist surgery can be an open procedure or through endoscopy. When possible, minimally invasive surgery is the preferred approach, as it reduces the healing time and lessens the risk of infection and other complications. 

Learn more about your carpal tunnel treatment options during a personalized consultation at  New Braunfels Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine. Online booking is available, or you are always welcome to call the office to set up your visit.