Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in your hands and fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed and squeezed.The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage that contains the median nerve and tendons that bend the fingers. Sensations from the hand are transmitted to the brain via the median nerve, and the brain then transmits impulses to the muscles. Simply put, it helps communicate to the brain what the hand senses and causes the muscles of the hand to move.
If carpal tunnel syndrome is left untreated for an extended period, it can worsen and cause dysfunction of the hand, including loss of sensation in the fingers.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Carpal tunnel syndrome can occur at any time, regardless of age. There are a few risk factors that contribute to this. Among them are:
Diagnosis is made based on various investigations. Your doctor will first evaluate your medical history and symptoms before conducting a physical examination.
There are several surgical and non-surgical approaches to treat carpal tunnel syndrome.
Non-surgical treatments
Surgical treatments
Your doctor may recommend surgery if your symptoms worsen or if other treatments have not improved your symptoms. Surgical treatments include:
In most instances, carpal tunnel surgery is performed as a day-care procedure, and you are not required to stay overnight at the hospital.
Carpal tunnel release is usually recommended if you have experienced symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling sensation on a moderate to severe degree that lasts six months or longer. The pain will usually be relieved immediately after the surgery, but the numbness and tingling sensation may take a longer duration to heal.
There are no specific methods to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. However, you can minimise the risk by practising the techniques below:
Early detection of carpal tunnel syndrome makes it easier to treat the condition with effective and appropriate treatment. A dedicated and expert team of Orthopaedic specialists at Pantai Hospital is available for consultation to provide the best care and assistance.
Get in touch with us to book an appointment today if you have concerns or questions regarding carpal tunnel syndrome. We assure you the best possible care tailored to your specific needs.
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