Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Near Alexandria, VA
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful neurological condition caused by irritation or compression of the median nerve. This major nerve provides sensory and motor functions to the forearm, wrist and hand; to reach the hand, it must pass through a narrow passageway in the wrist (carpal tunnel). Because the carpal tunnel is surrounded by bones and ligaments, it cannot easily expand to accommodate swelling. As a result, inflamed or swollen tissues inside the carpal tunnel can pressure the median nerve and interfere with its function. Known as carpal tunnel syndrome, this condition can cause symptoms such as wrist pain, hand muscle weakness, numbness and tingling sensations in the forearm, wrist, hand and fingers.
If you have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, you can explore your treatment options with Dr. Cassie Root. A board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon and hand and wrist specialist, Dr. Root practices at Nirschl Orthopaedic Center near Alexandria, Virginia.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The most common cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is an overuse strain injury. Contrary to widespread belief, scientific studies have not confirmed that the condition directly results from typing on a keyboard, using a computer mouse, playing a musical instrument, or participating in certain sports. However, the repetitive hand and wrist motions involved in these activities can potentially cause tendinitis or bursitis of the hand, which can narrow the carpal tunnel and lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other factors that may contribute to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Frequent use of vibrating hand tools, such as drills and jackhammers
- A wrist bone fracture
- A cyst or tumor in the wrist
- Infection
- Obesity or excess body weight
- Fluid retention during pregnancy or menopause
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- An abnormal buildup of amyloid protein deposits (amyloidosis)
- A naturally small carpal tunnel
- Excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages
Carpal tunnel syndrome is most often diagnosed between ages 30 and 60. For unknown reasons, the condition is more common in women than men.
How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
If Dr. Root confirms that your discomfort is caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, she may suggest that you begin with conservative therapy, such as:
- A brief period of rest
- Activity modifications to avoid hand and wrist motions that cause or worsen your pain
- Ice pack applications for 10-15 minutes at a time as needed
- An adjustable night wrist support
- Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- A cortisone injection into the carpal tunnel
If your symptoms improve to the point that you can comfortably perform hand therapy, a certified hand therapist at NOC’s dedicated physical therapy practice, Virginia Sportsmedicine Institute (VSI), can work directly with Dr. Root to develop a tailored rehabilitation program designed to enhance the flexibility and strength of your arm, wrist and hand.
When Is Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Considered?
If your discomfort is severe and does not improve with nonsurgical therapy, Dr. Root may suggest surgery to enlarge your carpal tunnel and reduce the pressure on your median nerve. This may involve surgically releasing the ligament that forms the top of the carpal tunnel on the palm side of your hand. If you elect surgical treatment, you will be in excellent hands with Dr. Root, who has earned a Subspecialty Certificate in Surgery of the Hand from the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery.
If you would like to explore your treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome with Dr. Root, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 today to request an appointment. Founded in 1974, we are proud to uphold a longstanding tradition of providing comprehensive orthopedic care in the Alexandria, VA, area.