Carpal tunnel syndrome is the result of pressure on the median nerve, a nerve which stretches from the hand to the forearm and is responsible for dexterity and feeling in certain parts of the hand. Carpal tunnel can be a very painful condition which generally limits mobility and causes muscle weakness, numbness and tingling in the hand.
At the Orlando Orthopaedic Center our board certified specialists offer innovative treatment options for those suffering from carpal tunnel. Our fellowship-trained hand surgeons are prepared to treat conditions of the hand and upper extremity with a state of the art approach in each and every case. If you or a loved one are suffering from carpal tunnel, turn to the experts at the Orlando Orthopaedic Center.
Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Carpal tunnel treatment should begin immediately following diagnosis. If complications such as arthritis or diabetes are a contributing factor they should be addressed and treated first. Rest and immobilization of the wrist are generally used first to prevent further damage and to access the severity of the case. All non-surgical carpal tunnel treatment options are generally explored first including: medications, exercise and physical therapies.
Medications may include: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections or pills. Anti-inflamatory drugs often reduce swelling and provide relief in recently developed cases of carpal tunnel as well as those resulting from strenuous activity. Corticosteroids generally provide immediate, short term relief.
Exercises for those suffering from carpal tunnel including stretching and strength training can be very effective by should be supervised by a certified physical therapist. These exercise programs are designed to build critical muscle mass and enable the patient to perform regular daily activities. Additional physical therapies may include chiropractic treatments and acupuncture.
Carpal Tunnel Surgery
There are two common forms of carpal tunnel surgery; open release surgery and endoscopic surgery. In both procedures the carpal ligament is cut to enlarge the carpal tunnel and reduce pressure on the median nerve. The open release surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia and requires a two inch incision in the wrist. Also performed under local anesthesia, endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery requires two ½ inch incisions and is often associated with a faster recovery time. Though carpal tunnel surgery does generally provide immediate relief, recovery can take months.
At the Orlando Orthopaedic Center our board certified specialists provide cutting edge treatment options for patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome. Our fellowship-trained orthopaedic hand surgeons are prepared to diagnose and aggressively treat conditions of the hand and upper extremity. If you are interested in learning more about your carpal tunnel treatment options, schedule a consultation with one of our specialists today.