Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that occurs when a nerve is compressed at the wrist. Repetitive use of the hands, fractures and arthritis can all cause swelling in the carpal tunnel. When the swelling becomes great enough, pressure is placed on the nerve causing symptoms. The usual symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are pain, numbness, and /or tingling that occurs in the arm, hand, or finger. The diagnosis is often confirmed with nerve conduction studies and an electromyogram.

Treatment: consists of reducing strenuous activities on the hand and wearing splints at night to relieve symptoms that interfere with sleep. Anti-inflammatory medication taken orally or injected into the carpal tunnel may reduce swelling within the carpal tunnel (When symptoms are severe or do not improve, surgery may be needed to enlarge the carpal tunnel.) This is usually done on an outpatient basis without a general anesthetic.