Carpal Tunnel Salt Lake City - Repetitive Stress Injury Utah

Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve at the wrist.

The carpal tunnel is an anatomic “space” in the wrist bordered by the bones of the wrist and transverse carpal ligament. Through the carpal tunnel, course several tendons as well as the median nerve. Swelling and compression in this confined space leads to dysfunction of the median nerve, an important nerve involved with function and sensation of the hand.

How do I know if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?

Typical symptoms of carpal tunnel include numbness in the hand, pain, and clumsiness. The numbness is typically in the distribution of the median nerve (palm side of hand involving thumb, index, middle and half of the ring finger), although this can be variable. Pain is generally a later sign and can be an indicator of more severe disease. The symptoms can be worse at night, with activity and when driving. A nerve conduction study or EMG can be performed to help with diagnosis.

How is carpal tunnel treated?

Treatment options include splinting and anti inflammatories for mild disease and surgery for more significant disease.

Surgery involves surgical release of the transverse carpal ligament. This allows the pressure on the median nerve to be resolved. If there is nerve damage from longstanding or severe disease this may not improve fully despite relief of additional pressure. For this reason, early treatment is recommended.

Which is better, open carpal tunnel release or endoscopic carpal tunnel release?

Carpal tunnel release can be performed by an open or endoscopic technique. An open release involves a 3-4 cm incision on the palm with release of the ligament through direct vision. Endoscopic release involves an incision across the wrist with use of an camera to visualize the ligament as it is released.

The advantages of endoscopic release are reported to be quicker recovery and a shorter scar. However, there has been shown to be a higher rate of recurrence and nerve injury with this type of procedure. Dr. Yates has experience with both, Dr. Yates prefers an open release. This is a quick, straightforward approach. The scar is small and never a cosmetic problem. In Dr. Yates opinion, there is no real advantage to return to work with an endoscopic repair.

What should I expect after carpal tunnel release?

After carpal tunnel release there is a 1-2 week period of immobilization followed by light duty for a total of 3 weeks. Full duty at work is allowed at 3 weeks. You should expect temporary weakness of grip strength for a few months after surgery.