Overview:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition that compresses the median nerve within the wrist.
- This compression often leads to a number of symptoms including pain, a tingling or numbing sensation in the palm and fingers, and the inability to grip various objects.
- The pain management specialists at Tulsa Pain Consultants explain what patients can do to mitigate wrist pain from carpal tunnel syndrome.
The carpal tunnel is a passageway in the wrist that protects the hand’s median nerve. Although there is no single cause, there are a number of risk factors that increase the likelihood of you developing the condition. Unfortunately, carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition that often occurs in people with occupations that require frequent wrist movements, pregnant women, and individuals affected by the following health conditions:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Gout
- Hypothyroidism
- Wrist fractures and dislocations
Additionally, the condition is more common in women than men. If you know someone who is or has ever been affected by carpal tunnel syndrome, you may have noticed him or her wearing a brace. This is a common, conservative technique for patients with mild cases of this syndrome. Other conservative treatment options may include resting the wrist, applying ice, or taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to relieve discomfort.
Next, physical therapy to improve function and subsequently reduce pain may be recommended for patients with moderate cases of carpal tunnel syndrome. That, and steroid injections can help reduce inflammation, pain, and tension in the wrist. These options will often be considered if conservative treatment methods are ineffective.
Lastly, minimally invasive surgery will be suggested if the above-mentioned treatment options are unsuccessful at relieving pain. Carpal tunnel release is a surgical intervention that alleviates pressure on the median nerve. A Tulsa Pain Consultants physician will refer you to a surgeon should you require this procedure. If you’re suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, call Tulsa Pain Consultants today to suffer no more!
Tulsa Pain Consultants is a multi-location pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 855-918-PAIN or click on our “Request An Appointment” tab to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.