Carpal tunnel syndrome is painful and results in missed work. It is commonly associated with computer work or repetitive activity involving the hands and wrists. However, there may be an underlying medical condition contributing to carpal tunnel syndrome, including:
- Osteoarthritis
- Rheumatoid Arthritis
- Hypothyroidism
Most people can treat carpal tunnel conservatively with non-surgical interventions. If these methods have failed, then surgery may be the next step. Before committing to surgical intervention, many patients first try to educate themselves about the process of undergoing carpal tunnel surgery in Boca Raton or Boynton Beach. In this blog post, we aim to help with this by answering some of the more common questions about carpal tunnel syndrome and surgery.
What Are The Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Early symptoms of carpal tunnel are pain, numbness, and tingling, especially at night. Sometimes the symptoms are noticed during the day while reading, driving, or working on the computer. Another common symptom is a weakness in the hands or wrists. Patients may find themselves dropping objects more frequently than usual.
Physicians diagnose carpal tunnel through patient history and a physical examination. They will look for reports of pain, numbness, tingling, and complete a physical exam of the hands and wrists.
Most specialists who practice orthopedics in Boca Raton will initially suggest conservative treatments before surgery. Suggestions may include:
- A keyboard pad to lift the wrists to proper position while at the computer
- Nighttime or daytime bracing of the wrists
- Steroid injections to the affected area
If a patient has tried these methods without relief or has severe carpal tunnel, then surgical options may be considered.
What Should I Know About Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
The most important thing you can do when considering carpal tunnel surgery in Boynton Beach and Boca Raton is to find a reputable orthopedic center. Unlike general practitioners, they are specialists in bones, joints, muscles, and the surgical measures necessary to correct associated ailments.
There are two types of carpal tunnel release surgery:
- Open Surgery – The ligaments around the carpal tunnel are cut to remove pressure from the median nerve, relieving symptoms. Open surgery involves a large cut, or incision- up to 2 inches from your wrist to your palm.
- Endoscopic Surgery – One opening in the wrist is made and possibly in the arm. The incisions are small, about ½ inch long. A tiny camera in one of the incisions guides the procedure as the surgeon cuts the ligaments.
Endoscopic surgery has been an exciting advancement, as patients generally heal faster and have less pain. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can speak with you regarding carpal tunnel options.
Talk to Us About Carpal Tunnel Surgery at Orthopaedic Surgery Associates
We are one of the nation’s most progressive groups for diagnosing and treating carpal tunnel and other disabling conditions. Our surgeons are board-certified, fellowship-trained, experts in carpal tunnel surgery in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach.
If you are experiencing discomfort or pain in the hands and wrists consult our experts to get a thorough assessment and accurate diagnosis of your condition. Depending on the findings of our specialists, you might benefit from carpal tunnel procedure in any of our locations:
Contact us today for more information or to schedule a consultation to address your condition. We will work with you on the right diagnosis and treatment plan, so you find relief and resume normalcy in your life.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
References
Web MD (2020).
