While carpal tunnel syndrome may not be life-threatening, it’s a nagging condition that can cause constant pain or discomfort and limit the use of your hands. The team at South Valley Neurology is well-versed in diagnosing and treating carpal tunnel syndrome. If you’re suffering from the limitations of carpal tunnel syndrome, please call our office number 669-207-0046 to schedule an appointment.
Your carpal tunnel runs along the inside of your wrist, creating a pathway from your arm to your hand. It's made up of small bones that form the bottom and sides of the conduit, with a tight ligament across the top creating the “roof.”
The median nerve runs through the carpal tunnel, down your arm, and into your hand and provides sensation for most of your hand except your pinkie finger.
Nine flexor tendons that control the movements of your fingers also pass through your carpal tunnel. The tunnel also contains synovium, tissues that provide lubrication for the movement of your tendons and enable smooth passage for these tendons.
Your carpal tunnel is a busy thoroughfare in a tight, unyielding space, which means that anytime there’s a disruption, it can affect your nerves and your tendons.
With carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), just such a disruption takes place. If your synovium becomes irritated and inflamed, it crowds the inside of your carpal tunnel, placing pressure on your median nerve.
The most common symptoms of CTS are:
Depending upon the extent of the nerve irritation, your discomfort can range from mild to severe.
Most cases of CTS come on gradually and are usually the result of:
Since CTS typically develops gradually, early intervention is essential.
To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, your South Valley Neurology provider conducts an exam and asks about your symptoms, including when they started, their severity, and if any activities like typing make them worse.
Afterward, they order several tests, including a nerve conduction velocity (NCV) test and electromyography (EMG). An NCV assesses your nerves for signs of damage or dysfunction. Electromyography measures the electrical activity in your muscles.
Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome depends on the severity of your symptoms and their effects on your daily life. South Valley Neurology usually recommends conservative treatments, like taking frequent breaks, icing your hands, and physical therapy.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, your provider might recommend corticosteroid injections or a wrist splint. In rare instances, surgical intervention may be necessary. Your doctor may also recommend the use of specific over-the-counter medications and/or prescription medications to treat the symptoms of CTS and help improve daily functioning.
To receive treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, call South Valley Neurology to request an appointment today.
