It’s easy to ignore the early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome because they’re mild and develop slowly. However, it’s important to get early treatment to prevent the condition from progressing to the point where you’ll need surgery. Dr. Mark Ciaglia, DO, and Dr. William J. Jordan, MD, at the Woodlands Center for Special Surgery in The Woodlands, Texas, have the expertise and diagnostic equipment on-site to identify the problem and provide customized treatment. To schedule an appointment, call the office or book an appointment online today.
A nerve called the median nerve runs down each arm, then goes through your wrists and into your hands. The nerve, as well as nine tendons, pass through your wrist using a narrow channel called the carpal tunnel.
You have carpal tunnel syndrome when the nerve is compressed inside the channel. The space in the carpal tunnel can narrow and pinch the nerve for many reasons, such as:
Tendons in the tunnel become inflamed when you repeatedly perform the same hand and finger movements.
When you extend or flex your wrist, pressure increases on the nerve. Frequently engaging in activities that bend your wrist leads to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Any injury to your wrist may cause inflammation in the carpal tunnel. A wrist fracture could directly damage the nerve.
Arthritis causes inflammation that can narrow the carpal tunnel and pinch your nerve. Diabetes may also increase your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Hormonal changes caused by thyroid disorders or that occur during menopause and pregnancy contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops gradually, so your symptoms are mild at first. When you begin to notice the problem, you may experience:
Tingling or numbness most often affects the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Your fingers may also feel like they’re swollen even though they’re not.
Early treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome may include one or more of the following:
If conservative measures don’t help, you may need surgery to improve your symptoms. Dr. Ciaglia specializes in wrist surgery and has successfully helped many patients find relief with carpal tunnel release surgery.
Don’t wait for your symptoms to worsen; call the Woodlands Center for Special Surgery today or book an appointment online to get expert treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
