What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This pressure on the nerve can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway made of bones and ligaments at the base of the hand. When swelling or irritation develops within this space, it can place pressure on the median nerve and affect normal hand function.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained hand and wrist specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment options to help patients relieve symptoms and restore strength and function.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Hand or wrist pain
- Weak grip strength
- Symptoms that worsen at night
- Difficulty holding objects
- Burning or electric-shock sensations in the hand
- Weakness when pinching or grasping
Causes & Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when increased pressure affects the median nerve within the wrist.
- Repetitive hand or wrist motions
- Typing or computer work
- Assembly line or tool use
- Wrist injuries or fractures
- Inflammation or swelling in the wrist
- Diabetes or other medical conditions
- Pregnancy-related swelling
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation of the hand, wrist, and nerve function.
- Physical examination of the hand and wrist
- Assessment of sensation and grip strength
- Review of symptoms and activity level
- Nerve conduction studies or EMG testing when needed
- X-rays or imaging to rule out other wrist conditions
Proper diagnosis helps determine the severity of nerve compression and guides the most effective treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Non-Surgical Treatment
Many patients improve with conservative treatment, especially when symptoms are addressed early. Non-surgical treatment options may include:
- Wrist splinting, especially at night
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Ergonomic adjustments
- Corticosteroid injections
- Physical or occupational therapy
- Nerve gliding exercises
Surgical Treatment
Surgery may be recommended when symptoms are severe or do not improve with conservative treatment. Carpal tunnel release surgery involves relieving pressure on the median nerve by releasing the ligament over the carpal tunnel. Our orthopedic hand specialists use advanced surgical techniques designed to support recovery and restore hand function.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery timelines vary depending on symptom severity and the treatment approach used.
- Mild symptoms may improve within weeks with conservative care
- Recovery after surgery may take several weeks to months
- Hand therapy may help improve strength and flexibility
- Early treatment may help prevent permanent nerve damage
Our team works closely with patients throughout recovery to help restore comfort, hand strength, and daily function.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Our hand and wrist specialists provide advanced orthopedic care close to home.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained physicians provide comprehensive treatment for hand, wrist, and nerve-related conditions.
- Experienced hand and wrist specialists
- Advanced nerve testing and imaging
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Personalized rehabilitation and recovery plans
- Convenient locations throughout Delaware and nearby Pennsylvania
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the first signs of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Early symptoms often include numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, especially at night.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome go away on its own?
Mild symptoms may improve with rest and activity modification, but persistent symptoms often require professional treatment.
Do I need surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Many patients improve with non-surgical treatment, though surgery may be recommended for severe or long-standing nerve compression.
How long does it take to recover from carpal tunnel surgery?
Recovery timelines vary, but many patients return to light activities within a few weeks and continue improving over several months.
When should I see a specialist?
If numbness, tingling, weakness, or hand pain interferes with sleep, work, or daily activities, it is important to seek orthopedic evaluation.