To make an appointment, call 952.831.TRIA (8742)
The information provided here is not intended to replace diagnosis by an orthopaedic specialist. Consult with a TRIA physician for a complete diagnosis and recommended treatment.

Hand & Wrist: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Click here to view TRIA's Outcomes for Carpal Tunnel.

Click here to view the patient education publication for Carpal Tunnel.

The carpal tunnel is the passageway for the median nerve and nine tendons that flex the fingers and thumb at the level of the wrist. When increased pressure is placed on the nerve, hand numbness and pain occurs. This most commonly occurs when the tendons and their lining thicken and take up more space, squeezing the nerve against the overlying transverse carpal ligament. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is more common the older one gets, and is more prominent in women than in men. It also more frequently develops in those with rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and thyroid conditions.

Signs & SymptomsTreatments
 

Signs & Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel may include:
  • Pain, numbness, weakness and tingling sensation in the hand
  • Pain can sometimes radiate up the arm
  • Daytime symptoms come during activities using the hand, especially when it requires prolonged gripping
  • Often symptoms at night can cause you to wake up from sleep
  • A gradual increase in frequency of symptoms, to the point of being constant
  • Usually involves the thumb, index, middle or ring fingers (may involve all or isolate to one or two fingers and spares the small finger)

Treatments

Medication

Anti-inflammatory medications can help to decrease pain, when inflammation is present.

Splinting

Certified Hand Therapists can custom fit a splint for the affected wrist. The splint acts as a brace to support the joint and limit stress placed on it. This is generally worn at night or during certain activities that can cause stress on the wrist.

Injections

Corticosteroid injections to the affected portion of the hand can provide short-term pain relief and reduced inflammation, when medication is ineffective or not an option.

Surgery

Depending on how severe your particular symptoms are, you may want to consider surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon cuts the roof of the carpal tunnel, thus increasing its size, and lessening the pressure on the nerve passing through it. This can reduce the risk of permanent damage and bring improvement.

Hand Therapy

Certified Hand Therapists work closely with doctors to create a customized therapy and rehabilitation program to restore function. They equip patients with the materials and exercises they need to maximize recovery.
Return to Hand & Wrist Conditions
The information provided here is not intended to replace diagnosis by an orthopaedic specialist. Consult with a TRIA physician for a complete diagnosis and recommended treatment.

To make an appointment, call 952.831.TRIA (8742)