Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common causes of wrist and hand pain, affecting 3%-6% of American adults. At Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas, with offices in Rockwall, Wylie, Forney, and Terrell, Texas, the team offers various treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, including physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and minimally invasive surgery. Call Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas today to schedule carpal tunnel treatment, or book your appointment online.

Is carpal tunnel syndrome an overuse injury?

Yes. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when a space in your wrist called the carpal tunnel narrows due to general wear-and-tear. Repetitive motions, like typing or using hand tools, can cause the carpal tunnel to shrink, placing excess pressure on the median nerve and surrounding tendons. 

Your median nerve plays a crucial role in wrist and hand movements. It’s also responsible for feeling in your thumb, middle, index, and ring finger.

What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include:

• Tingling in your fingers
• Decreased feeling in your fingertips
• Difficulty using your hands for tasks, like writing or holding a book
• Weakness in the hands
• Dropping objects

As carpal tunnel worsens, you might need to take time off work or avoid certain activities due to pain and inflammation.

Should I see an orthopaedic specialist about carpal tunnel?

Make an appointment with the team at Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas if you have numbness, weakness, or pain in your hand or wrist and it interferes with your routine or ability to perform certain activities.

How does an orthopaedic specialist diagnose carpal tunnel?

The Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas team completes several tests to diagnose carpal tunnel, including:

Tinel’s test

During this test, your provider gently taps on your median nerve and wrist with their fingers or other tools. If the tapping causes tingling or numbness in your fingertips, you probably have carpal tunnel. 

Wrist flexion (Phalen test)

During this test, you place your elbows on an exam table and let your wrists fall forward. You will experience tingling or numbness in your hands within 60 seconds if you have carpal tunnel. 

X-rays 

Your provider orders X-rays if they suspect your pain is due to a different medical condition, like arthritis or a fracture.

How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?

The Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas team treats carpal tunnel using a conservative, minimally invasive approach. They might suggest:

• Wearing a wrist splint
• Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
• Corticosteroid shots
• Physical therapy with a hand therapist
• Improving the ergonomics of your office

You might benefit from surgery if your symptoms continue or worsen even after these treatments. Carpal tunnel surgery increases the size of your carpal tunnel, easing pressure on your median nerve and the other tendons that pass through the space.

Call Orthopaedic Specialists of Dallas today to schedule an appointment, or book your visit online.