Tampa Bay Hand Center

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Tampa Bay Hand Center

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

TREATMENT
Early: In the early stages, the numbness and tingling are caused by the tiny blood vessels in the median nerve being "choked" by the swollen tendons. By reducing the tendon swelling, by resting the hand and wrist, the symptoms often subside. Wearing a wrist splint at night, together with reduction of work intensity, is very effective in reducing synovitis of the flexor tendons in the carpal tunnel. Anti-inflammatory medication, like Motrin, is also usually prescribed. Cortisone injection of the carpal tunnel is sometimes beneficial and vitamin B6 is often helpful.

Late: When the individual presents in the late stages of the disease or after conservative measures have failed, surgical treatment may be necessary. Surgery usually consists of: 1) dividing the thick ligament which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, 2) stripping the thickened synovium or lining from the tendons, and 3) reconstructing the ligament to prevent bow-stringing of the tendons. Six weeks following surgery, normal activities may be resumed in the average case.

SUMMARY
Largely as a result of increases in automation in the past 10 years, the incidence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome has increased dramatically. As knowledge about the problem increases, preventive measures have been developed and have, in general, proved very effective in reducing the number of cases.

Tampa Bay Hand Center

13905 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. · Suite B · Tampa, FL · 33613
(813) 978-9494 · Toll Free (800)-255-0443 · Fax (813) 979-4817
E-mail: CAirdmd@aol.com