Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Arlington, VA

Carpal Tunnel Arlington VACarpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve is compressed. This long nerve extends from the forearm to the hand and provides sensation to the thumb and all fingers except the pinky. Swelling and inflammation in the wrist can put pressure on the median nerve, causing it to become pinched and entrapped within the narrow carpal tunnel at the point where it passes through the wrist.

What Are the Symptoms?

Excessive pressure on the median nerve can reduce the mobility of the hand, making it difficult to perform fine motor movements, such as those involved in buttoning a shirt or writing. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, which may affect the forearm, wrist, hand and/or fingers, can include:

  • Pain
  • Stiffness
  • Numbness
  • Tingling, burning or shock-like sensations
  • Muscle weakness
  • Reduced grip
  • A tendency to drop objects
  • General clumsiness

Oftentimes, the symptoms develop gradually and worsen with hand movement. In response to the discomfort, some people limit their activities, which can lead to a reduced quality of life.

How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?

With appropriate treatment, many people are able to effectively manage the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, slow its progression or even stop it in its tracks. Some options include hand therapy to alleviate pressure on the median nerve, bracing to minimize pain by limiting hand and wrist movement, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or cortisone injections to reduce painful inflammation. To address very severe or persistent symptoms, carpal tunnel release surgery may be considered.

Consult With a Hand and Wrist Specialist in Arlington

At Nirschl Orthopaedic Center (NOC) in Arlington, Virginia, you can consult with Cassie G. Root, M.D., a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who has earned a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery. As an experienced hand and wrist specialist, Dr. Root focuses her medical practice on treating hand, wrist, forearm and elbow conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you’d like to discuss your treatment options with Dr. Root, please contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment. Founded in 1974, we’re proud to uphold a longstanding tradition of providing comprehensive orthopedic care in Arlington, VA.