Recognizing the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed in the wrist, leading to:
- Tingling and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers (excluding the pinky)
- Electric shock-like sensations that may radiate up the forearm
- Pain and discomfort when holding a phone, typing, steering a wheel, or performing repetitive hand motions
- Hand weakness – May cause difficulty gripping objects or frequent dropping of items
- Symptoms worsening at night, often waking individuals from sleep
Pain, numbness and tingling in your hand may be from carpal tunnel syndrome. It happens when the area around the main nerve to your hand is too tight. The nerve is called the median nerve. And the small space in your wrist where it passes is called the carpal tunnel.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The median nerve is located in the forearm and extends into the palm and base of the thumb, controlling:
- Hand and finger movement
- Grip strength
- Wrist rotation and flexion
The carpal tunnel is a small passageway in the wrist where the median nerve passes through. When this tunnel becomes too tight or inflamed, it compresses the median nerve, leading to pain, weakness, and restricted hand mobility.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop due to:
- Repetitive Hand or Wrist Motions – Frequent use of hands, typing, or repetitive wrist movements
- Wrist Fractures or Trauma – Can narrow the carpal tunnel and compress the nerve
- Congenital Factors – Some individuals are born with a naturally smaller carpal tunnel
- Medical Conditions – Including thyroid imbalances, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis
If you have risk factors or are experiencing symptoms, OPS Surgery Center can provide expert evaluation and treatment.
Diagnosis: Identifying Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At OPS Surgery Center, we use advanced diagnostic techniques to confirm carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Comprehensive medical history and physical examination
- Electromyography (EMG) & Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) – Evaluates nerve function and compression severity
- Ultrasound or MRI – Assesses median nerve inflammation and wrist structures
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At OPS Surgery Center, we offer non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments to relieve nerve compression and restore hand function.
Conservative Treatment Approaches
- Wrist Splinting – Helps keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing nerve pressure
- Activity Modification – Avoiding repetitive wrist movements and adjusting ergonomics
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – Helps reduce swelling and pain
Interventional & Advanced Therapies
- Corticosteroid Injections – Provides temporary relief by reducing nerve inflammation
- Physical Therapy & Nerve Gliding Exercises – Helps improve wrist mobility and nerve function
Surgical Treatment for Severe Cases
- Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery (CTR) – A minimally invasive procedure that relieves pressure on the median nerve by cutting the ligament restricting the carpal tunnel
- Endoscopic or Open Surgery – Depending on the severity, different surgical techniques can be used for long-term relief
Find Relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at OPS Surgery Center
Carpal tunnel syndrome can limit hand function and interfere with daily life, but with the right treatment, long-term relief is possible. At OPS Surgery Center, we specialize in personalized, state-of-the-art treatments to help you restore hand strength and mobility.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment and explore the best treatment options for your carpal tunnel syndrome!
