Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm. At SHIFAA PAN African Hospitals, our Neurology Department specializes in the diagnosis and management of carpal tunnel syndrome, offering personalized care to improve patients’ quality of life.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may include numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle fingers, and half of the ring finger. These symptoms may worsen at night or during activities that involve repetitive hand movements.

Investigation and Diagnosis:

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive clinical examination, including assessment of symptoms, physical examination, and sometimes nerve conduction studies (NCS) or electromyography (EMG) to evaluate nerve function. Our neurologists collaborate with hand surgeons and orthopedic specialists for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Treatment:

Treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome range from conservative measures to surgical intervention. Conservative approaches may include wrist splinting, activity modification, physical therapy, and medication to alleviate symptoms. In cases where conservative measures are ineffective, surgical release of the carpal tunnel may be recommended to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

Recovery Time:

Recovery time after treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome varies depending on the severity of the condition and the chosen treatment approach. Patients typically experience gradual improvement in symptoms following treatment, with full recovery taking several weeks to months.

 

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition characterized by numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and arm, typically caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist.

 

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome may be caused by various factors, including repetitive hand movements, wrist injury, underlying medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, and anatomical factors such as wrist anatomy.

 

How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a comprehensive clinical examination, including assessment of symptoms and physical examination. Nerve conduction studies (NCS) or electromyography (EMG) may be performed to evaluate nerve function.

 

What is the treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Treatment options include conservative measures such as wrist splinting, activity modification, physical therapy, and medication. Surgical release of the carpal tunnel may be recommended in cases where conservative measures are ineffective.

 

Can carpal tunnel syndrome be cured?

While carpal tunnel syndrome can often be effectively managed, it may not be fully cured. Treatment aims to alleviate symptoms and improve function.

 

Are there risks associated with surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome?

Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks associated with carpal tunnel release surgery, including infection, nerve damage, and stiffness. Our team takes precautions to minimize these risks.

 

How long does it take to recover from carpal tunnel syndrome surgery?

Recovery time varies depending on individual factors and the extent of the surgery. Patients typically experience gradual improvement in symptoms over several weeks to months following surgery.