Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one of the most common hand conditions. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel.
It is estimated that 3% of the population is affected by the syndrome, which is more common among women.
It is characterized by numbness, weakness, and pain in the wrist and 3½ fingers of the hand, especially the thumb and index finger.
The pain often radiates down the arm. At night, the symptoms in the hand and fingers worsen with a burning sensation, itching, and tingling that disrupts sleep.
In very serious cases, there is a risk of loss of sensation or even partial paralysis in the hand.
Symptoms begin with numbness in the first three fingers of the hand. It is characteristic that it occurs mainly during the evening hours.
Later, pain coexists which may radiate to the entire upper limb.
In more serious cases, weakness is observed when flexing the fingers of the hand and especially during short abduction-adduction of the thumb.
The progression of nerve pressure leads, in advanced stages, to paralysis of the thenar muscles, which are responsible for short abduction and adduction of the thumb.
TREATMENT
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome should begin as soon as possible, according to medical instructions. Initial treatment includes resting the hand for at least 2 weeks with the application of a simple wrist immobilization splint.
- Applying cold compresses can reduce swelling and burning pain.
- The administration of medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, or even local cortisone injections can, in the early stages, relieve swelling and pain.
- Surgical opening of the carpal tunnel is the definitive solution to the syndrome. It is recommended in cases where symptoms persist for at least 6 months.
- The operation is performed under local or regional anesthesia and essentially consists of opening the transverse ligament of the wrist and decompression of the median nerve and its branches.
Orthopedician Antonis Vasiliadis is at your disposal to fully inform you about taking a medical history and to answer your questions. Contact the Orthopedician and schedule your appointment.
