Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and its Treatment in Düsseldorf
Carpal tunnel syndrome and its treatment: carpal tunnel syndrome is a frequently occurring condition that affects the hand. The carpal tunnel is a channel in the hand through which nerves and tendons run. These tendons help bend the fingers.
Causes of nerve pressure in the hand
Alongside the tendons, a nerve also runs through the carpal tunnel, the median nerve. It is responsible for the short bending movements of the finger, closing the fist and sensation in the palm of the hand as far as the area of the little finger. When irritation or damage places persistently high pressure on the nerve, your orthopaedic specialist in Düsseldorf speaks of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome arises through the narrowing of the space available to the tendons and the nerve. Possible causes of carpal tunnel syndrome can be bone fractures, rheumatic changes or inflammation of the tendon sheath, which leads to thickening of the tendons in the carpal tunnel.
Frequently repeated manual work can equally be the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome in Düsseldorf, as can walking on crutches for longer periods. Interestingly, the syndrome occurs more frequently in people with diabetes, after pregnancy, during the menopause or in patients with an underactive thyroid. A hormonal change or hormonal imbalance can therefore under certain circumstances also cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome
When the median nerve of the hand is squeezed or exposed to strong pressure, this can lead to pain, numbness, tingling or a feeling of the hands and fingers falling asleep. If carpal tunnel syndrome is left untreated over a longer period, permanent damage to the nerve and visible wasting of the thumb muscle, known as thenar atrophy, can occur.
Through the loss of muscle in the thumb, its function is severely restricted and weakened. Everyday tasks or a firm fist become increasingly difficult and impair the quality of life of the person affected.
As with many conditions, the degree of the symptoms and the course of the illness can differ greatly. This can mean that carpal tunnel syndrome is recognised too late in people who have suffered only moderate complaints over many years, and that the nerve is already irreversibly damaged.
Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment
In the early stage of carpal tunnel syndrome, when the complaints have existed only for a short time, conservative treatment is used. This involves wearing a splint through which the wrist is immobilised overnight.
With longer-lasting complaints, where the danger of irreversible nerve damage is great, the narrowing of the carpal tunnel is corrected surgically in order to avoid permanent paralysis of the hand and the fingers.
Do you suffer from pain or restriction of the hand? Do not hesitate and arrange an appointment at our practice online, or call us during our consultation hours directly on the telephone number of the relevant practice. We will be glad to advise you personally about carpal tunnel syndrome in Düsseldorf and to find the best possible solution together for treating your complaints and securing your quality of life.
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Frequently Asked Questions: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
How do you get rid of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome vary according to severity and can include conservative approaches such as wrist splints, anti-inflammatory medication or physical therapy. In more severe cases surgical release of the nerve may be required. It is important to consult a doctor in order to determine the best treatment option.
How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?
Treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome can include conservative approaches such as wearing wrist splints, anti-inflammatory medication or physiotherapy. In more severe cases surgical release of the nerve may be required. It is important to see a doctor in order to determine the best treatment strategy.
How does carpal tunnel syndrome arise?
Carpal tunnel syndrome arises when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm through a narrow channel in the wrist (the carpal tunnel) to the palm of the hand, is compressed or constricted. This can be caused by swelling or inflammation due to overuse, repetitive movements, hand or wrist injuries, rheumatic conditions or hormonal changes.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome go away on its own?
In some cases, particularly when carpal tunnel syndrome has been caused by temporary factors such as pregnancy or overuse, the symptoms can improve or even disappear entirely once the triggering factors cease. Even so, a doctor should always be consulted with persistent symptoms, since untreated the syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage.
When does the carpal tunnel need surgery?
Carpal tunnel surgery is generally considered when conservative treatments such as splints, medication or physiotherapy have not been effective, or when the symptoms are very severe. This could be the case when hand function is restricted, when there is severe pain, or when tests indicate considerable damage to the nerve. The decision should always be taken in consultation with a doctor.
What happens if carpal tunnel syndrome is not treated?
If carpal tunnel syndrome remains untreated, the persistent pressure on the median nerve can lead to lasting numbness, weakness and even a loss of hand and thumb function. In severe cases this can lead to irreversible nerve damage and permanent impairment. A doctor should therefore always be consulted when carpal tunnel syndrome is suspected.
How do I find out whether I have carpal tunnel syndrome?
Typical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are tingling, numbness or pain in the fingers or the hand, often including complaints at night. The symptoms can radiate into the arm. A doctor can make an accurate diagnosis through clinical examinations and special tests such as electroneurography. A doctor should therefore always be consulted when carpal tunnel syndrome is suspected.
How long are you off sick with carpal tunnel syndrome without surgery?
The length of incapacity for work with carpal tunnel syndrome without surgery depends on the severity of the symptoms and the type of work. In mild cases and with non-manual work, patients can often continue working while undergoing conservative treatment. In more severe cases, or with work that places strain on the wrist, a longer period off may be necessary. The exact duration should be discussed with a doctor.
Does health insurance cover treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Yes. Diagnosis including nerve conduction testing, a night splint, medication and surgical release of the carpal tunnel are covered by statutory health insurance where medically necessary. For any optional supplementary services we inform you of the cost in Düsseldorf in advance.
How long does recovery take after carpal tunnel surgery?
The hand can usually be used for light tasks again after two to three weeks, and for physically demanding work often after four to six weeks. Numbness can take several months to recede, because the nerve needs time to recover. The earlier treatment starts, the better the outlook.
Which exercises help with carpal tunnel syndrome?
Nerve gliding exercises for the median nerve, gentle stretching of the forearm flexors and regular breaks during repetitive hand movements can relieve the complaints. A night splint keeps the wrist in a neutral position. With advanced nerve damage, however, exercises do not replace medical treatment.
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