Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It is one of the most common peripheral nerve disorders.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligaments. When the tissues surrounding the tendons in this tunnel swell, they compress the median nerve, causing symptoms in the hand and fingers.
Risk Factors
- Repetitive hand and wrist motions
- Pregnancy and hormonal changes
- Diabetes and thyroid conditions
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Obesity
- Wrist fractures or injuries
Treatment Options
Conservative Care
- Wrist splinting (especially at night)
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Corticosteroid injections
- Activity modification
Surgical Treatment
- Carpal tunnel release: Cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure
- Endoscopic approach: Smaller incision with camera guidance
- Open release: Direct visualization for complex cases
Over 90% of patients experience significant symptom relief after carpal tunnel release surgery.
Common Symptoms
- Numbness and tingling in thumb, index, middle fingers
- Hand weakness and difficulty gripping
- Pain radiating up the forearm
- Dropping objects
- Symptoms worse at night
- Shaking hands to relieve symptoms
Treatment Options
Wrist splinting
Corticosteroid injections
Endoscopic carpal tunnel release
Open carpal tunnel release
Physical therapy
Dr. Marcus Stephens and Dr. Jerry Walters II
Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
Providing expert carpal tunnel syndrome treatment at Nova Brain and Spine of GA in Hampton, Georgia. Serving patients throughout Southern Georgia and the Atlanta metro area.