There are several types of carpal tunnel treatments available. The appropriate treatment chosen will be determined by several factors. One thing the doctor may check for will be how serious the symptoms have become. They may also ask about any other carpal tunnel treatments that may have been attempted previously. Some may also depend on the level of activities participated in each day. And of course treatment options will ultimately be left up to the patient to decide which they think will work best for their particular situation.
There are a few things that help early on when experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms. Sometimes shaking the hand somewhat will relieve the numbness associated with carpal tunnel. When this does not work or the condition worsens other carpal tunnel treatments are pursued. Sometime therapy on the wrist works well. Applying heat or massaging the area may relieve symptoms.
As the condition worsens other carpal tunnel treatment options are pursued. There are four types of treatments available. Which one is used will depend on how severe the symptoms have become. Doctors may opt for trying to splint the wrist, or wearing a brace for added support. Then non-steroidal drugs which help to decrease inflammation may be ordered. Cortisone shots may be suggested to offer relief, and in the most severe cases surgery is performed.
Initially, the health care professional will suggest a brace or splint for the wrist. They may require wearing it only at night or during the day as well. It will help support the wrist and relieve pressure on the median nerve.
The pressure on the median nerve is caused by increased pressure due to some form of inflammation in the area. Doctors many times prescribe anti-inflammatory medications which do not contain steroids. These will help minimize the pressure put on the median nerve by inflammation. These may be prescribed along with the use of a brace, splint or other carpal tunnel treatment options.
When splints and non-steroidal medications have not helped relieve symptoms of carpal tunnel, the physician may suggest a cortisone shot. This steroid is injected directly into the affected area. The steroid, cortisone will help to shrink any inflamed tissue or membranes. This will usually give immediate relief. It may also last up to six months.
If all else fails to offer relief, doctors may suggest surgery for final carpal tunnel treatments. There are two types of surgery attempted, invasive and non-invasive. These methods are designed to cut the tendon at the end of the carpal tunnel. This relieves pressure on the median nerve.
These are the basic carpal tunnel treatments that are available. Talk to your health care provider about which might be the best option for you.