Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful and debilitating disorder that afflicts more than one million people. It is the result of a pinching of the median nerve in the hand, causing pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and inflammation.

Hand doctors at Heartland Orthopedic Specialists provide a variety of treatment options, from conservative care to advanced surgical techniques. Conservative treatments are done first and will progress to more aggressive techniques if symptoms persist.

Conservative methods:

• Anti-inflammatory medications help decrease symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome
• A wrist brace improves stabilization
• Cortisone injections reduce inflammation

However, if conservative methods fail to provide relief, surgery may be necessary.

"Carpal tunnel release is a common surgery performed to treat this disorder," explains Dr. Patrick E. Hurley, hand surgeon at Heartland Orthopedic Specialists. "For this technique, surgeons make a small incision down the palm and relieve the pressure on the nerve."

If you are experiencing pain or irritation that you believe may be related to carpal tunnel syndrome, call the Heartland Orthopedic Specialists hand doctors at (800) 762-1177 today to schedule an appointment.