Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS)
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition in which the median nerve is compressed as it passes through an opening from the wrist to the hand called the carpal tunnel.
Causes of Hand Pain and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Frequent, repetitive small hand movements, such as gripping or pinching activities.
Activities requiring extreme wrist positions (flexion or extension).
Arthritis or other joint diseases.
Hormonal or metabolic changes from menopause, pregnancy, or thyroid imbalance.
Changes in blood sugar levels.
Other wrist conditions or injuries, including strain, sprain, dislocation, break, or swelling and inflammation.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The following are the most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome:
Difficulty making a full fist or gripping objects with your hands.
Pain, burning, or numbness in the thumb, index and middle fingers.
Swelling in the fingers and hand.
Pain and/or numbness that is worse at night, often interrupting sleep.
Diagnosing Hand Problems (Diagnostic Tests):
Nerve testing (electromyogram) and nerve conduction studies
X-rays: Although carpal tunnel syndrome cannot be diagnosed through x-rays, they can be used to check for bone problems caused by past injuries, arthritis, or fractures that could affect the structure of your carpal tunnel.
Non-Surgical Care
If you start to have symptoms of carpal tunnel damage, follow these initial steps to reduce damage to your median nerve:
Stop activities that cause you numbness and pain in your hands.
Avoid repetitive pinching and gripping activities.
Rest your wrist between activities.
Wear a wrist splint at night to keep your wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
Continue with aerobic activities to improve blood flow and circulation.
Make sure your workspace is ergonomic.
Certified Hand Therapists at Soma Hand Therapy
If self-care does not resolve symptoms, you may be referred to hand therapy in either our Clarksville or Nashville location. Soma Hand Therapy has certified hand therapists who can help resolve your hand pain and restore function. We specialize in conservative treatment for hand conditions and can often find the true source of your symptoms.
Hand Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel release surgery is used to reduce the pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. The surgeon will make an incision in the ligament that forms the top of the carpal tunnel, which will relieve pressure on the median nerve. Any other tissue that may be putting pressure on the median nerve can also be removed during surgery, making more room in the tunnel and relieving pressure on the nerve.
Whether you have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or are postop carpal tunnel release surgery, contact us today to get scheduled to maximize your outcome. We offer certified hand therapy in Nashville and Clarksville, TN and do not require a referral to be seen.