Everyone has a Carpal Tunnel. It's the narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments on the palm side of the hand. For most people, this passageway is open and it's just not something that is considered much in day-to-day life. However, when the median nerve is compressed, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can occur. This syndrome affects the first two fingers and thumb, typically, and is usually the result of the wrist staying bent for long periods of time.

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"This often happens at night, so if you're having night numbness and you have to wake up and 'shake out' your wrists to 'wake them up,' you probably either need to slide your hand under a pillow so it doesn't bend, or you may want to sleep in a Carpal Tunnel night splint," says Dr. Andrew Morris. "Try that for at least four to six weeks before coming in to be evaluated because very often, this problem can be resolved at home." These splints can also be worn at work, if numbness and tingling are occurring in the workplace, especially if your job involves typing or extended use of your hands.

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But, what if the splints don't work? Well, the answer to that question lies primarily in the reason for your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, according to Dr. Morris. "The temporary fix is a steroid injection. This would be good for someone who has Carpal Tunnel Syndrome as a result of something like painting their house. If the condition is transient, the steroid injection is a good option."

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If numbness has gone on for a longer period of time, it's a good idea to consider surgery so the numbness does not become permanent. "This usualy involves a 15mm incision at the base of the palm to release the transverse Carpal Tunnel ligament," says Dr. Morris. "Prior to deciding about surgery, we will order a nerve conduction study to confirm where the median nerve is being compressed."

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If you have experienced numbness in your fingers or thumb that is not corrected by splinting, please give us a call for an evaluation appointment today. 256-236-4121.