Carpal Tunnel

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a prevalent medical issue that affects the wrist and hand, typically caused by median nerve compression. This nerve provides sensation and motor function to various parts of the wrist and hand. This can occur for multiple reasons, including repetitive motions, injury or underlying health conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.

The anatomy of the wrist plays the most prominent part in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome. The wrist is made up of bones, ligaments and tendons and is encased in a narrow channel of bones and ligaments called the carpal tunnel. When the median nerve is compressed inside of this, it can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the wrist and hand.

Who Gets Carpal Tunnel?

Although carpal tunnel syndrome can impact anyone, certain factors can raise the probability of developing this condition. It’s a frequently diagnosed and treated condition that affects the upper extremities and can occur in individuals of any age. Furthermore, it is more commonly seen in women than in men.

Risk factors include:

• Repetitive movements for extended periods of hands and wrists
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Hypothyroidism
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Symptoms and Signs of Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop gradually over time, and the symptoms may start mild and progress as the condition worsens.

Some early warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• A sensation of tingling or loss of feeling in the thumb, index, middle finger and a portion of the ring finger.
• Pain in the wrist and hand
• Weakness in the hand and wrist

Your symptoms will likely become more frequent and intense as the condition progresses. Some common symptoms include:

• Increased tingling and numbness in the hand and wrist
• Pain that radiates up the arm
• Weakness in the hand and wrist that affects the ability to grip and hold objects

In advanced cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, the affected hand may start to feel clumsy and awkward, and the thumb may lose strength.

When to See a Doctor for Carpal Tunnel

If you encounter indications of carpal tunnel issues, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Timely diagnosis of the condition can increase the effectiveness of the treatment.

Signs to see a doctor for carpal tunnel syndrome include:

• Pain and tingling that interferes with your daily activities
• Weakness in the hand and wrist affects your ability to grip and hold objects
• Numbness in your hand and wrist that persists or worsens

Why Have a Plastic Surgeon Take Care of Your Hands

Plastic surgeons, like ours here at Chattahoochee Plastic Surgery, have extensive knowledge and training in the anatomy and function of the hand, wrist and arm, which can be beneficial in performing the procedure with precision and minimizing the risk of complications. They’re also skilled in techniques that reduce scarring while helping your hands and wrists.

Get Relief From Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Minimal Scarring

Minimize the risk of chronic pain, permanent stiffness and other long-term complications by getting treated as soon as possible. Rest assured that we want to assist you in any way we can through your entire process. While every surgery result in some scars, our plastic surgeons will do their very best to minimize them for you. Get relief without worrying about how you’ll look after.

Our friendly and educated staff will work with you from consultation to post-surgical healing and ensure your goals are achieved. Contact us by clicking here or calling us at 706-494-7700 to get started feeling better today!