Carpal Tunnel FAQ's
Q: I have a friend who had carpal tunnel surgery. He complains that his grip and ability to do things like unscrew a bolt to change the car oil is not as good as it was before. He also has an ugly scar. What alternatives do I have?
A: Some carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients have complained after surgery about restrictions in their grip and pinch functions as well as tenderness in the palm, cosmetic problems and scar formation at the site of the incision. Fortunately, there is new surgical technique called “Mini-Open Carpal Tunnel Surgery.” The skin incision is only one centimeter long and is made in a very inconspicuous location. In clinical studies, this type of incision not only looked more aesthetic after healing, it also better preserved the grip and pinch function. It is also safer than endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery. The classic symptoms of CTS are night pain, numbness, tingling, pain in the fingers and hand and loss of strength. There may also be a sensation that the fingers are swollen or that there is poor circulation. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, you should seek treatment immediately as permanent nerve damage can result when nerve compression has occurred for prolonged periods of time.
Q: How can I find out if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: Dr. Siddiqi will need to take a detailed history and examination. He then reviews this with nerve conduction studies & EMG’s of the hand to determine if you have carpal tunnel syndrome and how severe it is.
Q: If I have carpal tunnel, what treatment options are available for me?
A: Dr. Siddiqi will discuss what the best options are available for you. Initially, conservative care with splints and / or therapy may be all that you need.
Q: When is surgery considered for carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: If you are unable to tolerate the pain, numbness or your hands are getting weaker, then you may be a candidate for surgery. Dr. Siddiqi offers minimally invasive surgery options for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Q: What will happen if I do not have treatment for my carpal tunnel syndrome?
A: There is a risk that your hand weakness will continue to worsen and more permanent damage to the nerves and muscles of the hand can occur if carpal tunnel is not treated.
