Carpal Tunnel syndrome is an insidious condition, and symptoms of it can range from a mild tingling or numbness in the hands and wrist, to full-blown pain and inability to use the hand. If left untreated for too long, the damage can become permanent.
But to diagnose and treat it correctly, you need the right doctor.
Orthopedic doctors are specialists in treating injuries and conditions of the muscles and skeleton of the body, but within this category there are specialists. The hand and the upper extremities are very complex and interrelated; doctors who specialize in these areas are known as “hand surgeons.”
But that term can be misleading, as not all Carpal Tunnel issues involve surgery. A comprehensive program can often be designed to minimize the aggravating activity and help the area heal. This is where the specialist and her team of hand therapists come in. Depending on the situation, a variety of techniques may be used. Splinting to immobilize the wrist and hand may be required, plus medication and special exercises to strengthen the area. Sometimes an injection of Corticosteroid may be given, to help reduce swelling and inflammation. Each case is different, and individualized plans are designed for each patient. Follow-through on the exercises and the doctor’s orders will determine how quickly the condition heals and how soon you can return to your regular activities.
With today’s rapidly-developing technology, specialization in medicine is not just good but necessary. If you feel you are suffering from any of the effects of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, reach out to Dr. Rehman and her team of specialized Occupational Therapists for a full evaluation and a comprehensive treatment program. With proper help, Carpal Tunnel does not have to be a lifelong condition.
This common surgery has improved by leaps and bounds over the surgery of years ago, when a large incision was made in the palm of the hand in order to access the necessary ligament. Now, top hand surgeons can use minimally invasive techniques that typically do not require an overnight hospital stay, and generate a much smaller incision and therefore shorter healing time.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome involve tingling, numbness and sometimes pain in the wrist and the hand. Because the transverse carpal ligament is pressing on the median nerve, these symptoms can persist despite the best efforts at treatment. In this case, surgery may be the only solution.
Specialized hand surgeons, such as Dr. Rehman, use high-end technology and miniature tools to make the procedure less invasive. A small incision is made at the wrist or at the wrist and palm, and the specialized tools are used to cut the carpal tunnel ligament to relieve the pressure on the median nerve. The incision is then closed, and the body’s own natural healing will form scar tissue to fill in the resulting gap in the ligament.
A period of rest of the hand is usually prescribed, with concomitant physical therapy designed to improve flexibility, range of motion and strength. Dedication to the exercises and the suggestions of the specialized hand therapists can vastly improve the outcome following surgery. If you had surgery on your non-dominant hand, or if you don’t have to do high-risk, repetitive activities, you may be able to return to work in one or two days.
The delicate structures of the hand require specialized training and years of experience to master. Seek a Board Certified Osteopathic hand surgeon such as Dr. Rehman to get you back to a full recovery. Call our office today for more information at 586-532-0803, or contact us right here.
Called “Carpal Tunnel Release”, the surgery for this painful condition is one of the most common surgeries in the US today. Since the hand and wrist are such delicate and complex mechanisms, with incredible sensitivity, you should seek out a hand surgeon who is highly trained and who employs the latest surgical technology.
Traditional Open Release surgery requires an incision about two inches long at the wrist. The surgeon then cuts the carpal tunnel ligament to make more room in the carpal tunnel and relieve the pressure on the median nerve. This surgery is usually done on an outpatient basis, unless there are other complicating medical conditions.
Newer surgery, called Endoscopic Surgery, requires only one or two incisions, about ½ inch each, in the wrist and the palm. A camera attached to a tube is inserted so the surgeon can see the tissue, and using small instruments the surgeon cuts the carpal ligament to release the pressure on the nerve. This surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis. Far less damage is done to the surrounding tissue, and recovery time is usually much less from this type of surgery than the traditional Open Release procedure.
Nontheless, this is still a surgical procedure and recovery time must be expected. Full recovery could take two or more months, and patients should undergo physical therapy after surgery to re-build wrist strength and flexibility. A well-planned rehabilitation plan is essential, and Dr. Rehman employs specialized therapists to help each patient gain a full recovery. Always consult with a Board Certified specialist like Dr. Rehman when you have issues involving your hand or your arm.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects three times more women than men. Possibly because the carpal tunnel, a narrow, rigid passageway made up of bones and ligaments and located at the base of the hand, tends to be smaller in women, swelling, injury or pressure on the median nerve is more easily accomplished, creating the pain and the problem. People with diabetes and other metabolic disorders that affect the nerves can also be at higher risk of developing the condition.
Some occupations seem to lend themselves to the development of carpal tunnel issues. It is especially common in people who perform assembly-line work; in fact it is three times more common in assemblers than in data-entry personnel. Other occupations that seem to be associated with a higher risk of carpal tunnel syndrome are cleaning, meat , fish and poultry packing, and sewing and finishing.
Some workplace accommodations may be helpful. Workers can practice correct posture, and take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks. Stretching exercises and warm-ups before starting work can be helpful. Splints may be worn to keep the wrists straight, and fingerless gloves may help keep the hands warmer and more flexible. Workstations, tools and tool handles may be re-designed to fit the hand more effectively and keep the wrist and hand in a more natural position. These same accommodations can apply to the individual’s home life. Warm-ups and stretching before any athletic endeavors involving the hand and wrist will help prevent many injuries.
If you are bothered by tingling, numbness, or a feeling of itching in the palm of your hand or in your thumb, index and middle finger, or if you have pain radiating up the wrist and the arm, you may have a carpal tunnel issue. Consulting early on with a Board Certified doctor specializing in treating the hand and arm is your best chance for success. Dr. Rehman will provide a thorough evaluation and a therapy program to help you control and eliminate this annoying and painful condition
Carpal Tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve leading from the forearm into the palm of the hand becomes compressed. This nerve is carried through the carpal tunnel, which is a narrow, rigid passageway made up of bones and ligaments and located at the base of the hand. In some individuals, there may be a genetic pre-disposition to a smaller carpal tunnel. In other instances, the tunnel may become narrowed by injury or a thickening of tendons or other swelling. Carpal Tunnels syndrome can also be associated with underlying diabetes and arthritis.
Symptoms usually start gradually and build over a period of time. There may be tingling and/or numbness in the hand, wrist or fingers. As the symptoms worsen, shooting pain can be felt in the hand or even up the affected arm. The problem may be noticed initially in the morning upon wakening; many people sleep with their wrists flexed, and this may exacerbate the condition.
As with other conditions, early intervention will allow for the best use of minimally-invasive techniques to ameliorate the condition. Consult early with a Board Certified doctor who specializes in treating the hand and arm. Initially, the doctor will conduct tests to rule out the underlying conditions of diabetes or arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be prescribed, to lessen the swelling and pain. A period of rest may be required, and a splint may be used to immobilize the wrist and allow it to heal. Later in treatment, exercises may be employed to foster range of motion, build strength and reduce pain and swelling.
If these techniques and time do not control the condition, surgery may be required. A special hand surgeon, such as Dr. Rehman, performs this surgery using minimally invasive techniques and specialized endoscopic instruments. The special scope allows the surgeon to see the tissue and the ligaments inside the hand, and make the necessary adjustments using tiny instruments. This type of minimally-invasive Carpal Tunnel surgery usually results in minimal scarring and tenderness, and a quicker recovery time than traditional Open Release surgery.
If you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, consult with Dr. Rehman early for the greatest chance of success using the least invasive procedures.
Repetitive motion disorders (RMDs) are a multitude of muscular conditions that result from repeated motions performed in normal work or daily activities.
RMDs include:
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Bursitis
Tendonitis
Epicondylitis
Ganglion cyst
Tenosynovitis
Trigger finger
RMDs are caused by too many uninterrupted repetitions of an activity or motion, unnatural or awkward motions such as twisting the arm or wrist, overexertion, incorrect posture, or muscle fatigue.
RMDs occur most commonly in the hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders, but can also happen in the neck, back, hips, knees, feet, legs, and ankles.
The disorders are characterized by
Pain
Tingling
Numbness
Visible swelling or redness of the affected area
Loss of flexibility and strength.
For some individuals, there may be no visible sign of injury, although they may find it hard to perform easy tasks. Over time, RMDs can cause temporary or permanent damage to the soft tissues in the body, such as the muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments and even compression of nerves or tissue.
Treatment of RMDs
Treatment for RMDs usually includes reducing or stopping the motions that cause symptoms. Options include:
Rest, and stretching and relaxation exercises
Applying ice to the affected area
Using medications such as pain relievers, cortisone, and anti-inflammatory drugs that can reduce pain and swelling.
Splints may be able to relieve pressure on the muscles and nerves.
Physical therapy may relieve the soreness and pain in the muscles and joints.
In some cases, surgery may be required to relieve symptoms and prevent permanent damage.
Many companies are now developing ergonomic programs to help workers adjust their pace of work and arrange office equipment to minimize problems, such as chairs, and keyboards.
Recovery
Most individuals with RMDs recover completely and can avoid re-injury by changing the way they perform repetitive movements, reducing frequency and including frequent rest. Without treatment, RMDs may result in permanent injury and complete loss of function in the affected area.
Repetitive motion disorders should always be diagnosed by a physician, as symptoms can be similar, but treatment different, depending upon the disorder. If you are experiencing hand, wrist, elbow or shoulder pain that could be indicative of a RMD, please contact us at Midwest Hand Therapy
Whether you are referred to a hand specialist for surgical care or decide to make the choice on your own, certain qualifications should not be overlooked. At a minimum, your operation should be performed by a hand surgeon that meets the following criteria:
Board Certification: Your hand surgeon should be board-certified by the American Osteopathic Board of Orthopedic Surgery, an organization committed to identifying and certifying physicians who have met stringent standards to assure competent performance in the field of orthopedic surgery.
Experience: Like any skill, practice makes perfect. In addition to obtaining an educational degree, be sure your surgeon has engaged in post-graduate training and fellowships. How many surgeries have they performed? How many years have they been operating?
Professional Memberships: Professional memberships with organizations such as the American Osteopathic Association and the American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons are important because these organizations encourage and support their members through continuing education, high standards, professional development, accreditations, training and more.
Patient Testimonials: Don’t forget to do your research. Just because a surgeon looks great on paper doesn’t necessarily mean they’re a patient favorite. How does this surgeon rate in patient satisfaction on sites like Vitals.com? Can the surgeon refer you to past patients for testimonials and feedback?
Strong Ties To Hand Therapy: To aid patients in full recovery, many hand surgeries require followup hand therapy services. Does this particular surgeon have his/her own rehabilitation center or hand therapy services?
When it comes to having a surgical hand procedure, only trust a top-rated and experienced surgeon! To learn more about Dr. Uzma H. Rehman, D.O., click here. To learn about Midwest Hand Therapy, and its post-surgical regimens, click here.
There are many types of corticosteroid injections, but in general, a corticosteroid injection is a formulation of two or more medications to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve function and mobility.
Corticosteroids are derived from cortisone, a steroid hormone released by the adrenal gland in response to stress. When combined with other pain-killing and anti-inflammatory medications in a corticosteroid injection, they work more effectively and efficiently to treat discomfort. Depending on the condition that is being treated, injections can providepain relief for several weeks up to several months.
At Midwest Hand Therapy, we sometimes administer corticosteroid injections as part of a comprehensive approach to hand and wrist rehabilitation. Depending upon the condition and the particular patient, a corticosteroid injection may accompany hand exercises, hot and cold modalities, and massage.
Many patients that have never had one of these injections express concern regarding the amount of pain they will experience. These injections are very similar to any other type of injection; the initial needle stick is similar to the pain caused by a quick bee sting. There is temporary discomfort while the medication is being injected, but nearly all corticosteroid injection patients agree that a short moment of discomfort is much better than ongoing pain of the wrist or hand!
Corticosteroid injections should only be administered by a licensed physician, and to ensure the best results, patients should visit a doctor that specializes in the specific area being treated. For example: a hand specialist for the hand, fingers, wrist or forearm, and a podiatrist for the foot, ankle or lower extremities.
For more information on corticosteroid injections, or if you are experiencing hand, wrist or finger pain, please contact us at Midwest Hand Therapy.
While not all carpal tunnel syndrome treatment involves surgery, it is sometimes necessary in order to provide relief. Minimally invasive carpal tunnel surgical treatments employ a small incision, either in the wrist or at the wrist and palm and small instruments to allow doctors to see and work on the structures in the wrist without making a large incision.
During carpal tunnel release surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is cut in order to release pressure on the median nerve, relieving carpal tunnel symptoms. Tiny cutting tools are inserted through the incision(s) and used to cut the ligament. By cutting the ligament pressure on the nerve is released, and the ensuing gap in the ligament will eventually fill with scar tissue. The small incision(s) are then stitched up. With minimally invasive surgery many patients can go home without a hospital stay.
If you have wrist pain or carpal tunnel syndrome, contact Dr. Rehman. As a top-rated Michigan hand surgeon Dr. Rehman can provide a full evaluation an recommend course of treatment.
The carpal tunnel is a passageway within the wrist surrounded by wrist (carpal) bones and the transverse carpal ligament. Through this “tunnel” or passageway are nine tendons and the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tissue around the tendons swells and puts pressure on the nerve.
While anyone can get carpal tunnel it tends to be more prevalent in women and older people. And while the exact causes may remain unknown, the following are some factors that can contribute to carpal tunnel.
Heredity. If this passageway within the wrist is smaller, due to heredity, an individual can be more susceptible to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Repetitive motion.Repeating the same motion over and over can aggravate the tendons and bring on swelling that leads to carpal tunnel symptoms.
Pregnancy. Due to hormonal changes and water retention, pregnant women can experience carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other health conditions. Anything that might cause swelling, like rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, diabetes, thyroid gland conditions and more can result in carpal tunnel syndrome.
While symptoms of carpal tunnel include hand pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness, these can be symptoms of other conditions. It is best to have any symptoms checked by an orthopedic doctor, who is extensively trained in the diagnosis and treatment of the musculoskeletal system, including bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. Proper diagnosis by your orthopedist insures you will get the proper treatment.
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