Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 101: How to Prevent It, How to Treat It
by Princeton Orthopaedic Associates
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common ailment caused by pressure on the medial nerve that runs down the arm, through the wrist, and into the hand. The syndrome is named for the medial nerve’s passageway through the wrist. Carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by repetitive motions done while the wrist is bent, such as when using a mouse or keyboard.
Symptoms and Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Most patients experience numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Sometimes, the numbness spreads to the ring finger and the medial nerve in the wrist and forearm. Patients can also experience pain in these areas.
Doctors at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates will diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome through a full patient workup. We will check for recent injuries, perform a physical exam of the hand, wrist, and forearm and obtain imaging of the wrist through either an x-ray or an MRI.
Treatment and Prevention of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated in several ways, depending on the severity of the pain or numbness. One of the simplest treatment methods is to wear a splint while using a computer to keep the wrist straight. This reduces the pressure on the nerve.
Patients can also use medication to alleviate the pain, often with over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen. For more severe pain, corticosteroid injections are an option.
In the most severe cases, you may need surgery to remove pressure from the nerve and alleviate pain or numbness.
Changing the routine or alleviating pressure on the nerve by repositioning your hand and wrist can prevent further issues with carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you have issues with carpal tunnel syndrome or suspect you may have it, contact Princeton Orthopaedic Associates. We can diagnose and treat your carpal tunnel syndrome. You don’t have to continue living with the numbness or pain.
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