What is Carpel Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a really common condition which can cause pins and needles in your palm, thumb, index, middle and ring fingers.
Often this is worse at night, waking you up, and can only be relieved by hanging your arm over the edge of the bed or shaking it around. Some cases are mild and only cause occasional discomfort, whilst in others, the pain can be constant and very debilitating.
What Causes it Carpel Tunnel?
The condition is caused by a compression of the median nerve at the wrist where it passes through a space shared with nine tendons called the carpal tunnel. Not all cases of carpal tunnel require surgery. In more mild cases, a splint can be used or a steroid injection given into the carpal tunnel itself.
However, if the compression is causing you to lose power and function in your hand, it is best managed with a small operation. The procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic without a tourniquet and takes about fifteen minutes to complete.
Surgery around nerves is very delicate and so special microscopic glasses are worn to ensure the best result possible. The wound usually heals within 10-12 days and during that time you won’t be able to drive.
Carpal tunnel surgery is very successful and most patients return back to their usual activities within a few weeks. If you would like to discuss this further please give us a call at Coriel Orthopaedic Group on 07946 396194