It’s Time To Face The Carpal Tunnel Music
The pain in the wrist is mild at first, probably a result of hours of typing on the computer. Over time, the pain moves to the hand and fingers. The hand begins to feel weak when gripping the simplest of objects. Then, one day, months, or even years of hand and wrist pain necessitates a trip to the doctor’s office for a carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) diagnosis. This is the story of 5% of Americans with carpal tunnel syndrome. While conservative treatment can help, many require an endoscopic release to finally get nerve pain under control. This simple outpatient procedure can turn a complex condition into a thing of the past by significantly reducing pain.
Let's peek inside the carpal tunnel
Nerves travel throughout the entire body, including the wrist, hand, and fingers. These information networks need tunnels to pass through safely, like the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The carpal tunnel is made of ligaments, tendons, and bones and hosts the median nerve. Should one or more of these components become damaged or inflamed, the sensitive nerve becomes trapped. This nerve pressure sends pain signals back to the brain. Wrist pain can also lead to hand pain and weakness in the fingers, as the median nerve also serves these areas. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the result and can impact daily life.
Symptoms and failed attempts at relief
Pain is not the only issue with CTS. Some people complain of numbness, tingling, and a loss of sensation in the hands. The pain can be significant at night, causing sleep disturbances. Grip strength is also compromised, leading to reduced capacity at work or accidents. Most CTS patients try conservative methods to relieve pain. These strategies include painkillers, wrist braces, massage, and stretching exercises. Over time, however, as the condition progresses, these options become less effective. Endoscopic release is the metaphorical light at the end of the tunnel.
The endoscopic advantage
CTS release is known for using a large incision along the wrist to open and access the area. Over time, this option proved to be counterintuitive. The large scar, painful longer recovery, and possibility of complications dissuaded many from surgery. Endoscopic release, however, is the go-to option for CTS. The process uses 1-2 small incisions and an endoscope, an innovative tool with a light and camera attachment. The endoscope projects the carpal tunnel on an external screen for the surgeon to operate. A surgical tool can pass through the second incision, which is the size of a buttonhole, for repairs. The minimally invasive surgery (MIS) means near minimal scars, less postoperative pain, and a faster recovery.
What are the benefits?
Endoscopic release is an outpatient surgery, meaning the patient can leave the hospital the same day. The patient will receive local anesthesia to numb the area. The surgeon will then take about 30 minutes to complete the procedure. After a short recovery, lasting an additional hour, the patient leaves the hospital. Recovery can take 4-6 weeks, accompanied by physical therapy (PT) and pain management. The benefits are tremendous, with over 90% success and patient satisfaction rates. There is a significant reduction in pain in the long term, too. With the right modification of daily activities, the benefits of surgery persist for years.
Say goodbye to carpal tunnel
Carpal tunnel can only be ignored for so long. The pain can restrict the proper use of the hands and wrists. For some, that could mean reduced productivity at work or limited social events. Others are unable to enjoy hobbies or pursue other passions. Non-surgical treatment can help in early cases. For severe, chronic cases, however, endoscopic release has proven to be the most effective option for long-term pain relief and a better quality of life.
