Introduction
OUCH! If you’ve got tingling, numbness and pain in your hands, especially at night, you’re not alone. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common condition, but it can be frustrating and disruptive.
What is Carpal Tunel Syndrome? This happens when a nerve in your wrist (the median nerve) gets squeezed, causing those uncomfortable symptoms. It’s like having a tourniquet just on the nerve, stopping tits blood supply.
Why is it important not to ignore Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Prompt treatment is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it can help you find relief and prevent long-term nerve damage. Secondly, if left untreated, the nerve changes can become permanent.
Impact on daily life: Simple tasks like buttoning a shirt, holding a pen or even carrying groceries can become a struggle. I’m here to explain more and get you the help you need to get rid of the pain and numbness…
Symptoms:
Common Features:
- Tingling or numbness in your thumb, index, middle, and sometimes ring finger
- Worse at night, it can wake you from sleep
- Hand weakness, especially with gripping or pinching
- A feeling like your fingers are swollen (even if they’re not)
- Pain that can travel up your arm
- It can even cause shoulder pain!
If you don’t have at least some of these then it is likely you do not have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Causes:
The Basics:
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in your wrist. A key nerve (the median nerve) and several tendons (9 in total) pass through it. When there’s swelling or any increase in pressure in the tunnel, it’s the nerve that gets compressed – that’s carpal tunnel syndrome.
Myths about carpal tunnel syndrome:
Lots of people think typing causes it but that’s not always true. It’s often a mix of factors and some causes include things like pregnancy, arthritis or repetitive hand motions.
How does work affect carpal tunnel syndrome?
Jobs involving vibrating tools, forceful hand motions or repetitive wrist bending / flexing for extended periods can increase your risk. If your work involves these factors, talk to me about ways to minimise strain on your wrists.
Diagnosis
How it’s Made:
I will ask about your symptoms, examine you and may order some tests if there’s any doubt:
Nerve tests
(nerve conduction study – NCS) to check if the nerve is working properly
Imaging
(ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging – MRI) to look for swelling or other issues.
Ruling Out Similar Conditions:
Sometimes hand pain can be from arthritis, neck problems or other nerve issues elsewhere. I can help sort that out.
Simple tests you can do at home:
Here are some simple tests:
- Tapping on the creases on the palm side of your wrist (Tinel’s sign) sends electricity down your hands into your fingers or even up your forearm
- Holding your wrists in a bent position (Phalen’s test), to see if these trigger your symptoms
Treatment Options
Tiered Approach
Rest & Splints:
Taking breaks, avoiding aggravating activities and wearing a wrist splint (especially at night) can often help.
Medication:
Over-the-counter or prescription painkillers or in some cases steroid injections, can reduce inflammation and pain.
Therapy:
Hand exercises and stretches can be beneficial and physio- or hand therapists can teach you ways to modify activities.
Exercises:
These might focus on improving flexibility and range of motion, while others can strengthen the muscles supporting your wrist. Nerve gliding exercises are sometimes used to help the median nerve move more freely.
Surgery:
If other treatments fail, carpal tunnel release surgery is very effective. It’s a short procedure to relieve pressure on the nerve. I do these under ultrasound-guidance through a 3 mm incision as opposed to an old-school, open approach which is 2-3 cm. The recovery is a matter of days to a week compared to several weeks!
My Expertise:
Experience:
This is one of the most common diagnoses I deal with but I am always looking for ways to make your experience and outcome better! I’ve treated thousands of patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. This experience means I can tailor the best treatment plan for you.
Bespoke treatment plan:
I’ll work closely with you to understand not just your symptoms, but how carpal tunnel syndrome is specifically impacting your daily life. This allows me to create a treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs and goals and not just push you into surgery straight away.
Compassion:
I understand how carpal tunnel can impact your life and I’m focused on getting you back to the activities you love.
Come and see me
If our hobbies, don’t wait to seek help. Schedule a consultation today to discuss the treatment options that are right for you.
