Carpal tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathy, post-traumatic pain - peripheral nerve disorders
Expert treatment
The first line of treatment often involves a splint to stabilize the wrist. The splint is worn at night for several weeks. If this does not help, you may need to wear the splint during the day. Hot and cold compresses may also be recommended.
There are many ergonomic devices that can be used in the workplace to reduce the stress placed on the wrist. These include special keyboards, cushioned mouse pads, and keyboard drawers. Make sure the keyboard is low enough so that the wrists aren't bent upward during typing. You may also need to make changes in your work duties or recreational activities. Some of the jobs associated with carpal tunnel syndrome include those that involve typing and vibrating tools. Carpal tunnel syndrome has also been linked to professional musicians.
Medications
Medications used in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome include
- non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
- Corticosteroid injections, given into the carpal tunnel area, may provide dramatic relief of symptoms.
Surgery
Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure that cuts into the ligament that is pressing on the nerve. Surgery is successful about 85% of the time. After surgery, the damaged nerve must heal for the symptoms to improve.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve at the wrist, which may result in numbness, tingling, weakness, or muscle damage in the hand and fingers.
Some of the conditions associated with carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Pregnancy
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Menopause
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Renal failure
- Diabetes
- Acromegaly
- Hypothyroidism
- Multiple myeloma
- Obesity
- Recent tuberculosis
- Recent fungal infection
- High blood pressure
Symptoms:
- Weakness in one or both hands
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb and next two or three fingers of one or both hands
- Numbness or tingling of the palm of the hand
- Pain in wrist or hand in one or both hands
- Pain extending to the elbow
- Problems with fine finger movements (coordination) in one or both hands
- Weak grip or difficulty carrying bags (a common complaint)
- Wasting away of the muscle under the thumb (in advanced or long-term cases