What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by the compression of the median nerve passing through the flexor retinaculum in the wrist, leading to numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand, particularly affecting the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

• Repetitive hand and wrist movements
• Prolonged computer and keyboard use
• Keeping the wrist in a wrong position for long periods
• Wrist injuries or sprains
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Hormonal disorders such as hypothyroidism
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases
• Genetic predisposition
• Prolonged use of vibrating tools
• Sports activities that require excessive force

What Are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

• Numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers
• Numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
• Pain in the wrist, especially pain that increases at night
• A burning sensation in the fingers
• Difficulty gripping and holding objects
• Weakness in the hand and fingers
• Pain radiating from the wrist to the forearm
• Difficulty with fine motor skills (e.g., buttoning a shirt)

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome can be made through the assessment of symptoms, physical examination findings, and a type of nerve electrical test known as electromyography (EMG). A negative EMG result does not necessarily mean the condition is absent. In such cases, the diagnosis can be determined based on physical examination findings and symptoms.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?

Treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome may vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the patient's specific condition. Treatment options include medication, wrist splints, physical therapy, and ultrasound-guided injections. In mild cases, wrist splints, rest for the wrist, and physical therapy may be preferred. In moderate to advanced cases, options such as ultrasound-guided injections or surgery may need to be considered.

Non-Surgical Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Ultrasound-Guided Injection (Hydrodisection)

With ultrasound, the compressed and damaged median nerve is visualized, and the nerve's diameter/area is measured. Then, an injection is administered around the median nerve to separate and relieve the nerve from its trapped position (the medication used in the injection is not a steroid/cortisone). The goal of this treatment is to free the trapped nerve and promote healing in the damaged nerve tissue. Since the median nerve is visualized in real-time via ultrasound and the injection is administered precisely, there is no risk of damaging the nerve. By applying regular sessions, both the healing of the nerve and the improvement of circulation in the affected hand can be achieved.