Hand and Microsurgery Associates
Hand Surgery & Orthopedic Surgery in Newark, OH
Carpal tunnel syndrome, a common condition affecting the wrist and hand, impacts an estimated 4 to 10 million people. Symptoms often include a sensation of numbness in the thumb and the first three fingers, along with discomfort that can extend up the forearm. At Hand and Microsurgery Associates, a team of expert orthopedic hand surgeons is at the ready to offer comprehensive evaluations and personalized care plans aimed at mitigating the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. This dedicated team is committed to helping patients regain their daily functionality. If you’re in Newark, OH, and are noticing these symptoms, reaching out to Hand and Microsurgery Associates to schedule a consultation could be a significant first step towards recovery.
Carpal Tunnel Q & A
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Within the wrist lies a compact passage known as the carpal tunnel, which serves as the route for the median nerve to enter the hand. This channel is bordered by bones on three sides, with the top sealed off by a sturdy strip of fibrous tissue called the transverse carpal ligament. Carpal tunnel syndrome arises when swelling in this ligament or nearby areas diminishes the tunnel’s space, leading to pressure on the nerve.
Individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome may notice various symptoms, including:
- A constant feeling of numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in the thumb and initial three fingers.
- Sporadic shocks or electric-like jolts felt in these fingers.
- Discomfort or a pins-and-needles feeling spreading from the forearm to the shoulder.
- A reduction in the strength of one’s grip, resulting in occasional clumsiness and difficulty in handling objects like pens or utensils, sometimes causing them to be dropped.
Initially, these symptoms might not be constant, tending to flare up, particularly upon waking, which could be due to the wrists being bent during sleep. Without appropriate intervention, the condition could worsen, leading to more persistent and prolonged symptoms.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
A variety of elements contribute to the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome. Inherited traits, such as a naturally smaller carpal tunnel or specific structural differences in the wrist, can predispose individuals to this condition by increasing the likelihood of nerve pressure.
Continuous repetitive motions linked to activities like typing, crafting, or musical performance can lead to swelling in the wrist area. Similarly, tasks or hobbies that require prolonged wrist positions, whether bent or extended, might provoke inflammation, heightening the chances of compressing the nerve.
Pregnancy-associated hormonal changes are also known to cause wrist swelling, thereby elevating the risk for carpal tunnel syndrome. Moreover, certain medical conditions, including diabetes, imbalances in thyroid function, and rheumatoid arthritis, are recognized as factors that may amplify the risk of encountering this syndrome.
How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?
After an in-depth evaluation and diagnosis by the team at Hand and Microsurgery Associates, you’ll receive a customized care strategy to meet your specific needs. Depending on your condition’s particulars, they may suggest stabilizing your wrist with a brace or splint to keep it in a neutral stance.
Moreover, the plan may include prescribing anti-inflammatory drugs or administering corticosteroid shots to effectively ease your discomfort.
The approach could also extend to recommending hand or occupational therapy, featuring exercises aimed at improving nerve mobility. They might also advise on altering your routine activities to lessen the strain on your wrist.
For instances where less invasive methods don’t suffice in mitigating discomfort, the skilled professionals at Hand and Microsurgery Associates are equipped to perform carpal tunnel decompression surgery, utilizing two distinct approaches to relieve the median nerve’s pressure.
To verify if carpal tunnel syndrome is at the root of your discomfort and to obtain a tailored treatment regime, consider reaching out to Hand and Microsurgery Associates.
About Newark Ohio
Newark, Ohio, offers a unique blend of historical richness and modern charm, nestled amidst the scenic beauty of Licking County. The city is renowned for its captivating Newark Earthworks, monumental structures created by the Hopewell culture, highlighting the area’s profound ancient history. These earthworks, recognized as a National Historic Landmark, underscore Newark’s significance in prehistoric North American history and are preserved for educational and cultural enrichment.
The city’s vibrant downtown area is a testament to Newark’s ongoing revitalization, where historical sites meet quaint eateries, lush parks, and engaging entertainment venues. Residents and visitors alike are drawn to the serenity of the Licking River, which is complemented by picturesque bike paths and tree-lined walkways, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city.
Learn more about Newark:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Newark,_Ohio
https://www.newarkohio.gov/
https://www.newarkohio.gov/visitor/