carpal tunnel syndrome: Part 2

The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is usually straightforward but the treatment options are often confusing. The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome requires a couple of tests to determine where exactly the nerve is being compressed. Once the diagnosis has been confirmed, you will be referred to a surgeon, neurologist, or physical therapist.
The aim of all treatments is to relieve symptoms and restore normal hand and finger function.

When carpal tunnel syndrome is mild, the best treatment is to avoid performing tasks that aggravate symptoms. This includes taking break from repetitive work and applying cold ice packs to reduce swelling on the wrist. The other options include wrist splints, pain medications, injection of corticosteroids and surgery.

Wrist splints when worn regularly can help relieve the pain, especially at night. Wrist splints are best suited for individuals with mild to moderate symptoms. However, most individuals need some type of pain medication.

When the symptoms are severe and pain is continuous, surgery may be the only other option. Surgery can be performed with a small incision and a camera. All consumers with carpal tunnel syndrome should understand that surgery is never the first choice treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Further surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is always elective and should never be performed under an emergency basis. Surgery is generally recommended when all other non-surgical interventions have failed to improve symptoms. The consumer has to understand that there are a fair number of individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome who undergo surgery and still have residual pain. Finally, surgery has its own share of complications.

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