While most don’t give it a second thought, repetitive motions like typing on a computer can lead to serious injury in the future. In fact, many office workers face carpal tunnel syndrome at some point throughout their careers. Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause significant pain that worsens over time if left untreated. Those experiencing these issues should Contact an Orthopedic Specialist In Panama City FL.
Carpal tunnel syndrome stems from pressure on a nerve. The median nerve is compressed by a ligament in the carpal tunnel, affecting the wrist and sometimes forearm. The resulting pain is often subtle at first, with an increase in numbness and tingling as the injury worsens. The pain can get so bad that sufferers are often left unable to sleep or work. An Orthopedic Specialist will be able to alleviate the pain and restore the wrist’s function numerous ways.
Depending on the severity of injury the patient has sustained, a doctor can recommend a splint or injection. A splint will be used to limit the activity of the wrist, thus allowing compression of the nerve to lessen. Splints however can severely hinder a patient’s use of their hands and wrists. For more temporary treatments, patients may opt for an injection of corticosteroids. The injection will provide short-term relief by decreasing compression of the nerve. While these methods are good for early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, the only permanent solution to the issue is surgery.
Surgery can be daunting, but it provides complete relief of the problem and allows patients to continue on with their lifestyle afterward. The surgery requires severing of the ligament affecting the median nerve. There are a few approaches to carpal tunnel surgery, but an Orthopedic Specialist in Panama City FL can provide a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure. Instead of opening up the entire wrist, surgeons will make small incisions in the wrist and insert a small camera to find the ligament. The procedure allows for less down time, letting patients use their wrists much quicker.
An Orthopedic Specialist can do a lot to help sufferers of carpal tunnel syndrome. No longer do patients have to live with the constant pain that results from their work and everyday activities. Whether a patient chooses to get surgery or not, they’ll receive the best care possible. Doctors can provide patients with a solution to regain full control of their lives, freeing themselves from carpal tunnel syndrome.
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