​Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that results from irritation and possible compression of the median nerve as it passes into the wrist. The largest nerve that passes from the forearm into the hand is called the "Median Nerve" and nerve impulses that permit sensation to portions of the hands and allow motor use (motion) of many muscles within the hand.

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Damage to the Median Nerve can result from a variety of causes, including repetitive use, trauma, tendinitis, and can commonly result from undiagnosed thyroid conditions.

Surgery is sometimes necessary to correct a severe nerve pinch, but quite commonly, thoughtful and intelligent use of oral medications can remedy the situation without the need for surgery.

Anti-convulsant medications are generally used to treat "seizure" disorders, but these medications, if used carefully and in relatively low dosage, can lessen or eliminate the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Anti-inflammatory medications can treat inflammatory causes of nerve pinches, but often oral anti-inflammatory medications can actually worsen the problem by an interesting effect on the kidneys that enhances salt retention. The salt retention from the anti-inflammatories can worsen the "pinch," but this unwanted side-effect can be prevented with the use of low-dose diuretics (fluid pills.)

 

CARPAL TUNNEL VARIANTS 

Unfortunately, there are other, much smaller, delicate nerves in the wrist that can become damaged, and if these nerve problems are confused with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (median nerve pathology) unnecessary surgery can occur, and the undiagnosed, underlying condition can actually worsen.

Accurate diagnosis is essential if recovery is to be expexted. This requires the thoughtful use of blood tests, sensitive nerve testing by properly trained and skilled physicians, and a skillful physical examination.

Without a thorough understanding of a physical ailment, treatment is most likely to fail.