Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common hand and wrist condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and wrist, making everyday tasks such as typing or holding objects challenging.
If left untreated, this hand and wrist condition can lead to permanent nerve damage. If you are dealing with CTS, you may be wondering what the best carpal tunnel syndrome treatment is. Should you choose surgery, or are non-surgical alternatives a better fit for you?
Let us explore both options, helping you make an informed decision about your carpal tunnel syndrome treatment.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome happens when the median nerve, a major nerve in your hand, gets compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. Factors like repetitive wrist movements, arthritis, or health conditions such as diabetes can contribute to developing CTS.
Common symptoms of CTS include:
- Pain or tingling in the hand or fingers, especially the thumb and first three fingers.
- Weakness while gripping objects.
- Numbness that worsens at night.
If you suspect you have CTS, it is essential to consult a specialist in hand surgery. A specialist in hand surgery can evaluate you and suggest the best course of action.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, carpal tunnel syndrome treatments range from non-surgical measures to surgery. The most common options include the following.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical carpal tunnel syndrome treatments are usually recommended if your symptoms are mild or moderate. These treatment methods aim to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Wrist Splints
Wearing a wrist splint keeps your hand in a neutral position, easing pressure on the median nerve. Splints are often worn at night to prevent the wrist from bending during sleep.
Anti-Inflammatory Medications
Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce swelling and pain in the wrist. Always consult your orthopedic doctor before starting any medication.
Corticosteroid Injections
For more severe carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, corticosteroid injections can reduce pain and swelling. Though effective, the relief is often temporary, and the symptoms may return.
Physical Therapy
An orthopedic physical therapist can guide you through specific exercises to stretch and strengthen your wrist and hand. Hand therapists may also focus on teaching you proper ergonomics, especially if your job requires repetitive wrist movements.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Making simple changes, such as taking regular breaks from repetitive tasks and improving your workstation setup, can significantly reduce strain on your wrist.
Surgical Options
If non-surgical methods do not provide relief or if your symptoms are severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgery aims to relieve pressure on the median nerve permanently.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Carpal tunnel release surgery is the most common procedure for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment. It involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve, creating more space in the carpal tunnel.
This hand surgery is highly effective and can often be done on an outpatient basis.
Open Surgery Vs. Endoscopic Surgery
There are two main surgical approaches for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment. Open surgery involves a small incision in the palm, while endoscopic surgery uses smaller incisions and a camera to guide the procedure. Both methods are effective, with endoscopic surgery often resulting in faster recovery.
Choosing Between Surgery and Alternatives
When considering surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment, it is crucial to consult a specialist in hand surgery. They will provide you with a thorough evaluation and guide you through the process.
Your choice between surgery and non-surgical treatments depends on several factors, including the severity of your symptoms, how long you have had them, and the impact on your quality of life.
Surgery May Be Right for You If:
- Your symptoms are severe and involve muscle weakness or loss of function.
- Non-surgical treatments have failed to provide relief.
- You are willing to commit to recovery time and physical therapy.
Alternatives May Be Right for You If:
- Your symptoms are mild to moderate.
- You prefer lower-risk treatment options.
- You can make lifestyle adjustments to reduce strain on your wrists.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in North Dakota
If you are struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome, do not wait to seek carpal tunnel syndrome treatment. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and improve your quality of life.
At The Bone & Joint Center, we have a team of orthopedic doctors committed to your health and recovery. We offer a comprehensive range of services, from non-surgical treatments to cutting-edge surgical care for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment. Our compassionate approach ensures you receive quality, patient-centered care every step of the way.
Call us today at (701) 946-7400/(866) 900-8650 or fill out our appointment request form to schedule your consultation today.
