Carpal Tunnel Treatment

Fortunately, the majority of patients who receive treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome experience a full relief from the tingling, numbness, and pain which is caused by their symptoms. The method of treatment used is based upon the severity of the condition, the preference of the patient, and whether or not there is an underlying medical condition which is causing the symptoms. The various treatments which are utilized focus on reducing the pressure and swelling surrounding the median nerve.

Immobilization with a Splint or Brace and Anti-inflammatory Medications

Typically the first form of treatment includes the use of a wrist splint which is worn at night to keep the wrist immobile and in a position which is neutral so that the wrist is not bending to far back or forward.

This alleviates the pressure on the median nerve which causes the symptoms of tingling and numbness that occur in the fingers and wrists that keep many sufferers awake at night. These wrist braces or splints can also be used during the day and some individuals with carpal tunnel experience a complete relief from their symptoms when utilizing these braces or splints. 

The use of anti-inflammatory medications which do not include steroids may be beneficial to some individuals who are experiencing the symptoms of carpal tunnel due to swelling or inflammation of carpal tendons. These typically work best when combined with other methods of treatment.

If no inflammation is present, these anti-inflammatories will not help nor do they aid in alleviating the symptoms of numbness, tingling or weakness. Consideration should be taken as well of the fact that these "nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs" or "NSAIDS" have the potential for harmful side effects with long term usage. 

Cortisone Injections and Surgery for Carpal Tunnel 

Cortisone injections may also be used in some patients with carpal tunnel. These are typically given when other forms of treatment have failed including the wrist splint, anti-inflammatory drugs, or in cases such as "pregnancy-related carpal tunnel".

The cortisone decreases the inflammation of the membranes and tendons which are swollen around the area of the median nerve which relieves the pressure that causes the majority of symptoms in carpal tunnel. These treatments are typically free of side effects as such a little amount of cortisone is actually used and the injection lasts for a period of six months and in some cases even longer.

These injections can be repeated if the symptoms reoccur; however, these can not be utilized any more than one time per six weeks. Iontophresis is another method which is now used in giving cortisone treatments and utilizes an electrical current to disperse the medication directly into the carpal tunnel through the skin. This is a much less painful way than an injection; however, in some individuals this method may not be as effective.

Surgical Options for Carpal Tunnel 

In severe cases of carpal tunnel, surgical procedures may be required to alleviate the pressure from the median nerve. These procedures are called "carpal tunnel release". There are several ways in which this procedure can be done which include an open incision or endoscopic surgery.

These surgeries involve the cutting of the carpal ligament to alleviate the pressure on the median nerve. These are typically done on an out-patient basis and are very successful in relieving the symptoms in the majority of individuals.