Carpal Tunnel Surgery?

Question

Hi, The Neurology folks did 2 of those very painful EMG tests on me and apparently I have fairly bad carpal tunnel in both hands and have had for some time. I had a referral to a surgeon but he quit, so I'd need to get another one but in general I've been trying to get by without getting this done, I guess I just don't like doctors very much, but it's been a while now and I haven't been able to get things to improve on my own but admittedly I don't know what to do myself to make things better - any ideas ? thanks

Answer 1

While surgery is quick it is not necessarily the answer. You need to make sure that the exact cause is determined. If the median nerve is found to be involved there are many things that can irritate it thus causing the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Things such as poor posture, poor body mechanics, abnormal joint alignment, poor flexibility, etc can cause symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. I have treated many patients who have undergone surgery only to have their symptoms return a short time later. Why did their symptoms return - because the cause of the problem was not corrected with surgery. I would ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist experienced in treating carpal tunnel syndrome. They also need to assess the elbow, shoulder, neck, and mid-back.

Answer 2

It sounds to me like you've had the necessary tests. It is NOT that rare to have it in both hands. I do, and know several others who do. I had the surgery in November on 1 wrist (no big deal) and will have the other done once I'm sure there will be no more snow to shovel! The base of my palm is still a bit tender and shoveling or lifting heavy items still hurt without the brace.

I was evaluated by several doctors and did have physical therapy which didn't help. The biggest thing of which to be aware is that the damage can become permanent if not treated. I couldn't face wearing braces to bed for the rest of my life and even the brace doesn't always work on the untreated wrist now. I just read a great Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet at the address below.

Answer 3

I had carpal tunnel in my left wrist for about 5 years and there really isn't anything that you can do yourself to improve it very much. You can massage your wrist when it flares up, and you can where a wrist brace, and they don't work that well. Otherwise you can get a shot in your wrist that can help some people, everyone is different, but the only relief I had was to have the surgery done. It don't hurt much. I went in the hospital at 8:00, and was out by 11:00. The surgery only lasts about 20 min, and they don't put you to sleep. I don't recommend doing both wrists at the same time, because you won't be able to use that hand for a week or so, but I definitely recommend you getting the surgery. What a relief!!!!!

Answer 4

The only thing you \can do my friend is have the operation. It is a day surgery job.

Your wrist cartilage is severed to allow relief of pressure . The penalty for leaving it too long is loss of function and circulation resulting in the flesh on that hand deteriorating.
Book your day surgery now before its too late.

Answer 5

get a second opinion, its very rair for someone to have it in both hands at the same time, you could have arthritis, or you could have fibromylgia, I have that and at first they thought i had carpal tunnel, but I bet you hurt in other places as well...if you'd like more information email me.