Do you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome? If so, you're not alone. This condition is very common, and can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

Carpal tunnel is a condition that is caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist. The symptoms of carpal tunnel include pain, tingling, and numbness in the hand and fingers. There are treatments that can help to relieve the symptoms. These treatments are simple, easy to follow, and very effective.

Wear a splint

One of the most effective treatments is wearing a splint. A splint can hold the wrist in a position that takes the pressure off of the median nerve, providing relief from pain and other symptoms. Sleeping in the splint is a good way to ensure that the wrist remains in a proper position for an extended period of time. And because the splint does not have to be worn during the day, it is a convenient and comfortable treatment option for many people.

Add Warmth

When you have carpal tunnel pain, it can feel like your whole hand is on fire. The slightest movement can send searing pain up your arm, making it hard to do even simple tasks. One way to add warmth is to wear fingerless gloves. This allows you to still use your hands for regular activities while providing gentle warmth that can help to ease the pain. Another option is to soak your hands in warm water for a few minutes each day. The warm water helps to relax the muscles and tendons in your wrist, relieving the pressure on the median nerve. As a result, adding warmth is a simple but effective way to reduce carpal tunnel pain.

Ice Your Hand

Applying an ice pack or soaking your hand in an ice bath can help to lower inflammation and numb the area, providing temporary relief. If you're dealing with constant pain, however, it's important to see a doctor to find the underlying cause. Ice can help to provide some relief in the meantime, but it's only a temporary solution.

Move Your Wrist

One carpal tunnel exercise that works is to make a fist and then slide your fingers until they are open. When you repeat the movement five to 10 times, it can help to reduce the pressure on your wrist. Another thing you can do is to try and avoid flexing your wrists too much. This can help to reduce the amount of pressure on the nerves in your wrist. 

If you have any ergonomic accessories for your computer or office, make sure to use them. This can help to minimize the amount of strain on your wrists throughout the day.

Raise Your Wrist

Raising the wrist is a simple, but effective treatment. By elevating the hands and wrists, you can help to reduce pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

NSAIDs are a type of medication that can be used to relieve pain, inflammation, and fever. Common examples include ibuprofen and aspirin. NSAIDs work by reducing the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that cause pain and inflammation. 

While NSAIDs are typically safe and effective, they can cause side effects such as an upset stomach, ulcers, and kidney problems. 

In addition, NSAIDs can interact with other medications, so it is important to speak to a healthcare provider before taking them. When used as directed, NSAIDs can provide short-term relief from pain and inflammation. However, they should not be used for long-term pain relief or without medical supervision.

Steroid injections

One of the most common treatments for inflammation are steroid injections. Steroid injections are typically given with a local anesthetic, and they work by reducing inflammation in the affected area. The injection can be given either into the joint or into the surrounding tissue. The steroid helps to reduce pain and swelling, and it can also improve range of motion. The injection can be given as a one-time treatment or as part of a longer-term treatment plan. Cortisone is a type of steroid that is often used for this purpose. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, and it can be very effective in treating both acute and chronic inflammation. 

Steroid injections are usually safe, but there are some risks associated with them. These risks include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. The decision to have a steroid injection should be made after careful consideration of the risks and benefits.

When to Consider Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Relief

Severe cases of carpal tunnel may require surgery. Surgery involves cutting the ligament pressing on the median nerve and can provide relief from symptoms. If you’re experiencing significant carpal tunnel syndrome, it might be time to see an orthopedic surgeon.

Prime Surgical Suites is an outpatient surgery center that offers carpal tunnel surgery and other hand surgeries. We are committed to providing our patients with the highest quality of care. Our board-certified surgeons use the latest surgical techniques and technologies to ensure that our patients receive the best possible outcome.

At Prime Surgical Suites, we provide state-of-the-art, cost-effective musculoskeletal surgical care in a convenient and comfortable outpatient setting for patients of all ages. Located in RiverCrest Medical Park, we are the region's first outpatient center focused exclusively on orthopedics. Our physician-led center will help restore your active lifestyle and well-being with compassion and orthopedic excellence.