hand - carpal tunnel
Introduction
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition brought on by increased pressure on the median nerve at the wrist. Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, and pain in the arm, hand, and fingers.
The carpal tunnel is a space in the wrist where the median nerve and nine tendons pass from the forearm into the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when pressure builds up from swelling in this tunnel and puts pressure on the nerve. There are a number of conditions known to increase the pressure in the carpal tunnel but usually the cause is unknown.
Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms may often be relieved without surgery.
Non operative options may include:- Identification and treatment medical conditions causing the swelling
- Changing the patterns of hand use
- Keeping the wrist splinted in a straight position
- Steroid injection into the carpal tunnel to reduce swelling around the nerve
When symptoms are severe or do not improve, surgery may be needed to make more
room for the nerve. Pressure on the nerve is decreased by cutting the ligament
that forms the roof (top) of the tunnel on the palm side of the hand.
Surgery is performed in hospital as a day surgery procedure, usually with only a
light anaesthetic.
After your Surgery
At the time of discharge your hand will be wrapped in a bandage, which is removed the following day. Normal use of the hand can usually be resumed when comfortable.
Following surgery, soreness around the incision may last for several weeks or months. The numbness and tingling may disappear quickly or slowly. It may take several months for strength in the hand and wrist to return to normal. Carpal tunnel symptoms may not completely go away after surgery, especially in severe cases
Returning to normal activities is an individual matter, but most people return to work within two to four weeks and to more vigorous activities after six weeks.