What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
To understand carpal tunnel syndrome, first, you should understand the anatomy of your hand and wrist.
Carpal Tunnel Anatomy
The carpal tunnel is a small pathway at the base of your wrist that involves nine tendons and the median nerve, which is responsible for sending feelings to your fingers and aids flexibility of your hand’s muscles.
When an individual experiences carpal tunnel syndrome, their pathway narrows, putting pressure on the median nerve, leading to a tingling or numbness feeling in your fingers or weakening your hand muscles.
Several factors may cause carpal tunnel syndrome, including medical conditions. However, repetitive activities involving your hand can also lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. Most cases are caused by repetitive activities or constant vibration, but some cases don’t have a specific cause.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel
You may have carpal tunnel if you experience the following symptoms:
- Tingling or numbness in your fingers or hand, either while moving or resting
- Difficult to carry daily tasks, such as typing or driving
- Hand weakness or hand/arm pain
If you are experiencing these symptoms, call Dr. Howland for a proper diagnosis of carpal tunnel. He will focus on how sensitive your median nerve is, and may suggest an electromyography (EMG) for further evaluation. For some cases, lifestyle changes may improve your carpal tunnel syndrome. If this is not the case for you, surgery may offer permanent relief.
What to Expect with Surgery
Generally, carpal tunnel surgery involves releasing the ligament in your pathway that is putting pressure and causing your carpal tunnel symptoms. Releasing this ligament creates more room for the median nerve and 9 tendons, improving your hand function and strength.
Results
Carpal tunnel surgery is very successful and restores function of the hand. Dr. Howland will diagnose and successfully treat your carpal tunnel syndrome with a treatment that is best for you. The primary goal is for you not to worry about carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms when going throughout your normal day.
Contact Dr. Howland today to schedule your evaluation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
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