Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) Treatment in Sugar Land

When simple, everyday activities like talking on the phone, reading a book, or driving lead to an unpleasant “tingling” or weakness in your hands, it’s time to receive an evaluation for carpal tunnel syndrome. Often attributed to the stresses of modern living, frequently, no single cause can be identified for carpal tunnel syndrome. Thus, sufferers require the attention of a neurologist with deep expertise, able to diagnose damage to nerves and tendons, injuries to the wrist, and other contributing factors—an overactive pituitary gland, an underactive thyroid gland, and rheumatoid arthritis.

The risk of developing CTS is not confined to one job or industry, but women and people with diabetes are more vulnerable. Successful treatment for carpal tunnel requires early intervention, but recurrence is rare. Dr. Hashwani utilizes the combined procedures of EMG/NCS to successfully diagnose CTS and other nerve problems.

Get in touch with our office for more information about this procedure and to schedule an appointment/consultation.

Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

At HNNC, Dr. Hashwani and his team are at the forefront of offering state-of-the-art diagnostic techniques to understand the depth of the condition and carve out an individualized path for treatment.

Physical Examination

A comprehensive physical examination is the first step toward diagnosing CTS. This assessment encompasses a detailed review of the patient’s medical history, complemented by a focused physical examination. During the physical examination, healthcare professionals may employ specific diagnostic techniques to identify the presence and severity of the condition.

These may include:

• Tinel’s Test: This test involves gently tapping along the median nerve at the wrist to check for any tingling or numbness in the fingers, which could indicate irritation of the nerve.
• Phalen’s Test: A diagnostic procedure where the patient is asked to flex their wrist gently. Any tingling or numbness experienced during this test may point to CTS.
• Strength and Sensation Tests: These tests focus on evaluating the strength of the muscles in the hand and assessing if there is any sensory loss, typically by applying light touch and pinprick sensations to gauge the health of the median nerve.
• Wrist Radiographs: Sometimes, imaging tests like X-rays may be conducted to rule out other potential issues like fractures or arthritis, which might be contributing to the symptoms.

Electrodiagnostic Tests

For a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the condition, electrodiagnostic tests are utilized as they offer critical insights into nerve functionality, assisting in confirming a diagnosis of CTS.

These tests primarily include:

• Electromyography (EMG): This test evaluates the health of the muscles and the nerves that control them. By inserting thin needles into the muscles, the test records electrical activity, helping to pinpoint areas with potential nerve damage.
• Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS): These studies measure the speed of electrical impulses in the nerves. A slowed conduction velocity often hints at compression of the median nerve, a characteristic sign of CTS.

Under the guidance of Dr. Hashwani, these combined procedures of EMG/NCS are expertly conducted to diagnose not just CTS, but a range of other nerve-related issues. This diagnostic approach ensures a comprehensive understanding, paving the way for personalized and effective treatment plans.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Non-surgical Treatments

In the initial stages, or in cases where the symptoms are relatively mild, non-surgical treatments often prove to be highly beneficial. These strategies not only help in alleviating the discomfort but also aim at reversing the underlying causes of the condition. Here are the diverse non-surgical treatment modalities that we offer:

• Wrist Splints: The utilization of wrist splints, especially during nighttime, can help stabilize the wrist in a neutral position, thus alleviating pressure on the median nerve. This preventive measure often reduces night-time symptoms and promotes better sleep.
• Anti-inflammatory Drugs: To manage the symptoms effectively, doctors may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications. These drugs work towards reducing swelling and inflammation, thereby providing relief from the pain associated with CTS.
• Corticosteroid Injections: For more severe cases, corticosteroid injections can be administered directly into the carpal tunnel. These injections are potent in reducing inflammation and providing substantial relief from persistent pain.
• Physical or Occupational Therapy: Engaging in physical or occupational therapy plays a significant role in the recovery process. Therapists guide patients through a series of exercises and stretches that focus on strengthening the hand and wrist muscles and improving mobility. Additionally, they might offer guidance on modifying daily activities to prevent strain on the wrist.

Surgical Treatments

In instances where conservative, non-surgical measures fail to provide the desired relief, surgical intervention becomes a viable and often necessary option. One of the surgical techniques we employ at HNNC is the Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery.

• Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: This surgery aims to relieve pressure on the median nerve by severing the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. The procedure is usually conducted under local anesthesia and can be performed using open or endoscopic techniques. The choice of technique often depends on the severity of the condition and the surgeon’s expertise.
• Post-operative Care and Rehabilitation: After the surgery, a structured rehabilitation program is initiated to aid in swift recovery. This may include gentle exercises to regain movement and strength in the wrist and hand.
  
• Success Rates and Recovery Time: A vast majority of individuals who undergo carpal tunnel release surgery experience significant improvement, and recurrence is rare. Patients can expect to return to their normal activities within a few weeks, although full recovery might take a bit longer.

HNNC is committed to offering a patient-centric approach, where treatments are tailored to meet individual needs, ensuring the highest possibility of success and a journey towards a pain-free life.