Non-Surgical Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Treating carpal tunnel syndrome as early as possible after symptoms start is your best bet for keeping the condition from advancing to the point where you need surgery.
If you have been diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and do not get it treated, it can last a long time and will typically get considerably worse – eventually making it impossible to work and typically requiring surgical intervention.
In this article experienced Bloomfield Hills Carpal Tunnel Syndrome surgeon Dr. Rehman discusses some steps you can take to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. However, you should still make an appointment and discussing your specific situation with a hand specialist such as Dr. Rehman to ensure minimize your pain and ensure you have the proper treatment plan for your carpal.
Changing your Work Routine for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, it is likely that your work duties are the cause or a contributing factor. Repetitive motions, especially those involving some force (typing, turning a screwdriver, etc.) are the worst culprits.
Ideally your employer may be able to change your work duties (e.g. moving you from cashier to customer service). If this is not possible, take taking frequent breaks, stretch your hands often and try to use less pressure when performing repetitive motions.
6 Nonsurgical Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is diagnosed early, some of the following nonsurgical methods may help improve your condition. These conservative treatments are typically more likely to help if you’ve had only mild to moderate symptoms for less than 10 months.
#1. Applying cold packs for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Cold packs can help reduce the inflammation that is putting pressure on the nerve.
#2. Wrist Splinting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Doctor Rehman can provide you with a splint that holds your wrist still while you sleep to help relieve nighttime symptoms of tingling and numbness.
#3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Over the counter anti-inflammatory drugs such as an ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), may help offer short-term pain relief from carpal tunnel syndrome. However there isn’t evidence that these drugs will offer any long-term improvement of the actual underlying condition.
#4. Natural Anti-inflammatories for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Some foods and substances found in nature are known to reduce inflammation in the body. These can help, in some circumstances, offer relief from nerve pain that is caused or aggravated by inflammation.
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, certain nuts, and even chocolate have all been acknowledged for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have shown that certain spices may also reduce inflammation in the body. Many of these have been used in ancient medical traditions for centuries. These include:
- Turmeric (Curcumin)
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Cinnamon
Research into how well these foods reduce inflammation in the body is promising.
Arnica is another plant derived substance – from the daisy family – that has been used medicinally to treat inflammation. Arnica cream may be applied topically, while Arnica Mon tana compounds (available at health food stores) is a homeopathic remedy taken orally to help reduce inflammation.
#5. Corticosteroids for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
In cases of more advanced or severe pain, Dr. Rehman may inject your carpal tunnel with a corticosteroid such as cortisone to relieve pain.
Corticosteroids decrease inflammation and swelling, relieving pressure on the median nerve.
(Note that oral corticosteroids typically are not as effective as corticosteroid injections for treating carpal tunnel syndrome.)
If carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by rheumatoid arthritis or another inflammatory arthritis, then treating the arthritis may reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. However, this is unproved.
#6. Physical Therapy, Stretches & Exercise for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you are suffering from the pain, numbness and tingling of carpal tunnel syndrome, physical therapy (PT) can sometimes offers options to help you recover – without the potential downtime or side effects of surgery. PT is especially beneficially when started early after symptoms appear. You can learn more about the Physical Therapy we offer for carpal tunnel syndrome HERE.
Dr. Rehman can provide you with some simple stretches and exercises that may help your carpal tunnel system. We have also listed some exercises for carpal tunnel HERE. You can easily do these at work, while at your desk, or even when watching TV.
Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The conservative treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome we have listed are typically more likely to help if you have had only mild to moderate symptoms for less than 10 months.
However, if your symptoms are severe or don’t respond to other treatments surgery may be appropriate. Carpal tunnel surgery relieves pain and pressure by cutting the ligament pressing on the median nerve.
Clarkston Area Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Doctor
If you think you may be suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. As with most medical conditions, early detection, awareness, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
She will assess your individual situation, and prescribe the treatments that are best for your condition.
