Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a compressive neuropathy of the median nerve at the level of the Wrist Diagnosis is made by clinical signs and symptoms (night pain, hand weakness/clumsiness, numbness in median nerve distribution) and positive provocative tests (i.e. Tinel's, Durkan's).Treatment is generally conservative with night splints and injections with carpal tunnel release reserved for refractory cases.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

CTS develops when the carpal tunnel, a narrow passage in the wrist, becomes swollen or irritated, putting pressure on the median nerve. Several factors can contribute to this condition, including repetitive hand movements, prolonged computer use, wrist injuries, pregnancy, diabetes, arthritis, and genetic predisposition.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Patients with CTS often experience gradual worsening of symptoms, including:

Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers

Burning sensation or electric-shock-like pain that may radiate to the forearm

Weakness in the hand, causing difficulty gripping or holding objects

Increased discomfort at night or during repetitive hand activities

Minimally Invasive & Surgical Options

For severe or persistent cases where non-surgical methods do not provide relief, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended. This procedure involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve, restoring normal hand function. Minimally invasive techniques allow for quicker recovery and minimal scarring.