Carpal Tunnel

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that results when the median nerve in your wrist and hand is compressed by chronic inflammation in the surrounding tissue. 

This nerve controls and provides feeling in your fingers and, when compressed, can cause a number of symptoms that can interfere with your job or usual activities.

In many cases, carpal tunnel syndrome develops due to frequent, repetitive movements, such as working on a computer or using power tools. These actions can result in inflammation that presses on the nerves. 

You can also develop carpal tunnel syndrome due to many underlying medical conditions, like diabetes, thyroid disorders, or high blood pressure.

What are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The first indication that you may have carpal tunnel syndrome is frequently experiencing the sensation that your hand has fallen asleep.

Other common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Pain
• Burning sensations
• Weakness in the hand

You may also find it difficult to grasp or hold objects in your hand with carpal tunnel syndrome.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?

If you experience chronic pain or other symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome that interfere with your activities, schedule a consultation at Beaufort Orthopaedic Sports & Spine for an accurate diagnosis.

The skilled physicians offer on-site diagnostic testing and perform a physical evaluation of your hand and wrist. Your provider checks for signs of swelling and evaluates the strength in your hand. They also discuss the severity of your other symptoms to determine the best treatment plan.

What Treatments are Available for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

To treat carpal tunnel syndrome, the team may first recommend at-home treatments such as rest, ice, and wrist splints. If conservative treatments don’t help, they may suggest cortisone injections.

For serious cases, the surgical team at Beaufort Orthopaedic Sports & Spine offers carpal tunnel release surgery to alleviate pressure on your median nerve and ease your symptoms. 

This same type of release surgery can be used for other compression issues affecting other nerves in your body, including the ulnar nerve, which is one of the main nerves in your arm.

Find out more about surgery options for relieving carpal tunnel syndrome pain by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.