Millions of people are living with carpal tunnel syndrome. This bothersome condition causes issues like pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. Some people live with the discomfort without it bothering them, while others need professional care.
At Orthopaedic Specialists in Nashville, Tennessee, Dr. Brandon Downs provides expert orthopaedic care for issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome and joint pain. He's up to date on the latest treatments and technologies to help you feel better faster.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition in which pressure on the median nerve in the arm causes symptoms. The nerve passes from the forearm into the wrist through a small passageway called the carpal tunnel.
People develop carpal tunnel syndrome for various reasons, including repetitive movements. Frequent computer typing or regular mouse use can inflame tendons and tissues, leading to nerve compression.
Anatomical issues can also irritate the median nerve. Those with wrist arthritis or who've had a fracture can have a smaller carpal tunnel space, which compresses the nerve and causes symptoms like:
Symptoms of carpal tunnel usually develop slowly and worsen over time without treatment. Most people initially notice nocturnal symptoms, such as pain that wakes them at night or tingling in their fingers.
Not everyone who has carpal tunnel syndrome requires immediate care. Lifestyle changes and home care, such as stretching, icing, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, are extremely helpful in controlling symptoms.
However, some signs warrant an evaluation by Dr. Downs. If you have any of the following, your wrist discomfort requires expert care:
One of the first, and most annoying, signs of carpal tunnel is pain or tingling at night. It may wake you from a deep sleep and make it hard to fall back asleep. Nocturnal pain that continues despite a wrist brace and other measures warrants treatment.
Weakness is a sign that carpal tunnel syndrome is progressing. Compression of the nerve weakens the muscles around the wrist, making it difficult to hold a coffee cup, open jars, or turn a doorknob.
Numbness and tingling may start intermittently but often get worse and more frequent as carpal tunnel syndrome worsens. Numbness or tingling that interferes with work or sleep is a good indication that you need treatment.
Carpal tunnel symptoms start slowly and develop over time – but if your symptoms progress faster or you notice that they're more frequent, it's time to make an appointment. The sooner you have an evaluation, the better we can treat symptoms without surgery.
The most significant issue with carpal tunnel syndrome is pain that affects normal activities. Whether symptoms are making it difficult to work or you can't enjoy your favorite hobbies or activities, it's necessary to get treatment when you get to this point.
At your appointment, Dr. Downs evaluates your symptoms and performs tests to confirm that carpal tunnel syndrome is the cause. He recommends conservative therapies and surgical treatment depending on the severity of the problem.
To find out more about our carpal tunnel treatments, book an appointment with Dr. Downs at Orthopaedic Specialists, contact any of our five Nashville offices, or visit our website to request a consultation online today.
