Find Effective Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the use of the fingers and hands, causing numbness, tingling, weakness, or pain. This occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, which runs from the forearm to the hand through a small space in the wrist. This space is called the “carpal tunnel,” which is formed by the bones, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the median nerve.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by certain diseases or conditions. These include arthritis, diabetes, obesity, pregnancy, and menopause.
What Are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Symptoms of CPS include:
- Hand and wrist pain
- Finger numbness or tingling
- Weakness of the hand
These symptoms may become more prevalent when participating in activities that involve bending of the wrist, including playing piano, typing, and more. Symptoms may also become more prevalent at night, making it difficult to sleep comfortably.
How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?
You should see a doctor as soon as you begin to notice symptoms of CPS. Your doctor will ask you about your daily routine and any recent activities that could have hurt your wrist. They will also discuss your medical history to see if you have any conditions that may cause the condition. The doctor may also check the feeling in your neck, shoulders, arms, wrists, and hands. Blood tests and nerve tests may also be necessary to determine the problem.
How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
Mild symptoms can usually be treated at home. You can try:
- Wearing a wrist splint at night to take pressure off of your median nerve.
- Determining what activities cause you the most discomfort, and stopping these activities until you speak with your doctor.
- Taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine, such as aspirin, to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
If symptoms can’t be treated with home care, you may be a candidate for surgery. Neurosurgeons at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic surgically treat carpal tunnel syndrome using carpal tunnel release surgery, which is an open incision procedure. Once the doctor makes a small incision in the wrist, they guide an endoscope (miniature camera) into the wrist. This allows them to view structures in the wrist without having to make a large incision. The doctor then cuts the transverse carpal ligament, which relieves pressure off of the median nerve.
Make an Appointment
Our neurosurgeons at Raleigh Neurosurgical Clinic are skilled and experienced at treating carpal tunnel syndrome. To meet with one of our specialists:
Make an appointment today!