Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Northwest Indiana

The wrist is the narrowest part of our upper extremity and the bones which make up the wrist are called carpals. The “carpal tunnel” is created by carpals on three sides and a transverse carpal ligament on the fourth side.

In this narrow space travels the median nerve and nine flexor tendons. Flexor tendons are responsible for finger movement. The median nerve provides motor function to your thumb and is responsible for supplying sensation to several of your fingers. The median nerve can be compressed by swollen tendons or a small carpal tunnel. When this nerve is compressed you may feel tingling or numbness in your hand. Keeping your wrist bent for prolonged periods may compress the median nerve and cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Northwest Indiana

Symptoms often start with mild numbness or tingling in your hand (especially in your thumb, index and long fingers). This sensation is likely to worsen at night because of your sleeping position. As the disease progresses, pain in the palm or difficulty in performing fine motor skills may become evident.

Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome - Northwest Indiana

The treatment depends on the severity of the problem. Initial treatment may involve rest and immobilization of the wrist in a splint. Anti-inflammatory medicines and some exercises may also work wonders to relieve the symptoms.

For severe cases, surgery is considered the best way to treat this problem. This surgery is called a carpal tunnel release. A small incision is made in the palm and the transverse carpal ligament is cut to create more space in the tunnel.