Hand Carpal Tunnel Specialists in Metro Atlanta
Carpal Tunnel
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that can cause numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness in the hand and wrist. Symptoms can make everyday activities such as typing, gripping objects, driving, or sleeping comfortably more difficult.
Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve becomes compressed as it travels through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. At Georgia Bone & Joint, our hand and wrist specialists evaluate carpal tunnel symptoms and provide personalized treatment options for patients throughout Metro Atlanta.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Pressure on the median nerve can develop when tissues within the carpal tunnel become irritated or swollen, reducing the available space for the nerve.
Several factors may contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome, including wrist anatomy, repetitive hand and wrist movements, previous wrist injuries, and certain underlying health conditions. Identifying factors contributing to nerve compression can help determine the appropriate approach to treatment.
Common Carpal Tunnel Symptoms
Carpal tunnel symptoms often develop gradually and may become more noticeable over time. Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers
- Burning or pain in the hand and wrist
- Symptoms that become worse at night
- Hand or grip weakness
- Difficulty holding or gripping objects
- Sensations that travel from the wrist into the hand
Symptoms frequently affect the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger because these areas receive sensation from the median nerve. Talk to hand specialist in Atlanta if you’re experiencing these symptoms after long periods of typing or using your hands and wrists during hobbies such as sewing, knitting, playing video games, or musical instruments.
Carpal Tunnel Treatment Options by Board-Certified Hand Specialist
Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome depends on the severity and duration of symptoms. Conservative treatment may include activity modifications, wrist splinting, medications, injections, or other approaches designed to reduce pressure and irritation.
If symptoms are severe or do not improve with conservative care like splinting or physical therapy, carpal tunnel release surgery may be considered to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What does carpal tunnel syndrome feel like?
Carpal tunnel commonly causes numbness, tingling, burning, or pain in the hand and fingers. Some people also notice hand weakness or difficulty gripping objects.
Why is carpal tunnel worse at night?
Wrist positioning while sleeping can increase pressure on the median nerve, which may make numbness and tingling more noticeable at night or cause patients to wake from their symptoms.
What fingers are affected by carpal tunnel syndrome?
Symptoms commonly affect the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. Numbness involving other areas of the hand may indicate a different source of nerve compression.
Can carpal tunnel syndrome be treated without surgery?
Yes. Depending on the severity of the condition, conservative carpal tunnel treatment may include wrist splinting, activity modifications, medications, or injections. An orthopedic specialist can determine which options are appropriate based on your symptoms.
When is carpal tunnel surgery recommended?
Carpal tunnel release may be considered when symptoms are persistent or severe, conservative treatments have not provided sufficient relief, or nerve compression is affecting hand strength and function.
When should I see a doctor for hand numbness?
Consider an orthopedic evaluation when numbness, tingling, pain, or weakness becomes persistent, disrupts sleep, affects your grip, or makes everyday hand movements difficult. An evaluation can help determine whether carpal tunnel syndrome or another condition is causing your symptoms.
Top Hand Doctors Serving Metro Atlanta
Jayson A.McMath, M.D.
Elbow, Hand, Hip, Jiffy Knee Replacement, Joint Replacement, Knee, Mako Robotics, Pediatric Orthopedics, Sports Medicine, Wrist
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