Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery and Treatment Options
Treatment goals for carpal tunnel syndrome
Treatment for carpal tunnel primarily aims to avoid activities that irritate the wrist and hand.
Orthopaedic experts at UPMC may recommend periods of rest at first for relief.
Since the carpal tunnel syndrome worsens over time, further treatment methods seek to:
- Manage pain.
- Stop the progression of the nerve swelling.
- Preserve and maximize function.
Treatment types for carpal tunnel syndrome
At UPMC Orthopaedic Care, we offer nonsurgical and surgical treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome relief.
Treatment plans often begin with nonsurgical methods, such as:
- Wearing splints to reduce motion and support the nerve
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Rest
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- Activity modifications
- Injections
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Carpal tunnel syndrome repair surgery
If your symptoms persist even after nonsurgical treatments, your doctor may recommend carpal tunnel syndrome surgery.
Some common surgical treatments your doctor may choose, based on your symptoms and syndrome severity, may include:
- Carving out a nerve's tunnel
- Tendon and nerve lengthening
- Ligament shortening
Benefits and risks of carpal tunnel syndrome treatment
Treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, when implemented quickly, can be effective in preserving and even restoring function in the wrists, hands, and fingers.
It's also vital to make accommodations into your routine if you are predisposed to developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Following any sort of surgical treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, you should expect:
- Swelling
- Pain
- Some bruising
Doctors may instruct you to:
- Wear a brace for three to four weeks.
- Elevate your hands.
- Move or exercise your hands to increase circulation.
Failure to follow doctors' post-op orders can lead to further problems and related complications.
Learn more about carpal tunnel syndrome treatments
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