(904) 825-0540

If you were to take a poll asking what causes carpal tunnel syndrome, the majority of people would answer “typing at a computer.” Although true, there are many other repetitive hand movements that can cause carpal tunnel.

Perhaps the biggest contributor to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome is the result of inheriting a small carpal tunnel, which consists of carpal bones, connective tissue, the transverse carpal ligament, and the median nerve.

Our Hand and Wrist Center, led by Dr. Alexander Lampley, frequently assesses patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome and helps them alleviate pain associated with the condition.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome typically start gradually and worsen over time if patients choose not to do anything about it. During the early stages pain may come and go, but advanced stages of carpal tunnel syndrome may produce constant pain, such as:

• General pain in the hand
• A numb or tingly feeling
• Shock-like feelings in the thumb and fingers
• Pain that travels up the arm

At Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine we will discuss your symptoms and perform a few physical tests in order to properly diagnose your condition. Common signs of carpal tunnel syndrome include weak muscles around the thumb and numbness when pressing down on the median nerve. Occasionally electronic tests and X-rays are used to confirm the diagnosis.

How to Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Naturally carpal tunnel syndrome will worsen without proper treatment or failing to stop activities that are causing it to develop. If detected at an early stage, carpal tunnel syndrome can be relieved without surgery. As with most injuries and conditions treated at Orthopaedic Associates of St. Augustine, we will consider conservative treatments prior to surgery. Non-surgical treatments usually include braces, splints, medications, and changes in daily activities. If such treatments fail to deliver relief from pain, surgery will be considered.

If you are experiencing pain or other symptoms that may be associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, you may request an appointment or contact us at 904-825-0540 to schedule an appointment with an orthopaedic specialist.

 

Dr. Lampley, MD

A member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, Dr. Lampley specializes in minimally invasive procedures including endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery and arthroscopy of the hand, wrist, elbow and shoulder.