Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Lawrence, KS

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs due to compression of the median nerve in the wrist. Located in the forearm, the median nerve controls the movements in the hand and is connected to all of the fingers except the pinky. Symptoms of carpal tunnel include pain, numbness, weakness, swelling, and tingling in the affected hand and wrist. As the condition progresses, it can lead to muscle pain and cramping that runs from the hand up into the arm. At Lawrence Family Practice Center, we utilize top techniques to treat carpal tunnel syndrome and improve uncomfortable symptoms. Contact our office in Lawrence, KS to schedule a consultation with one of our highly trained physicians.

If you have mild carpal tunnel symptoms, your condition may be treated using wrist splints or steroid injections to reduce swelling. Sometimes nerve gliding exercises are recommended to help alleviate pressure on the nerve. For more severe cases of carpal tunnel, surgery may be the best course of action. There are two types of surgery:

• Endoscopic surgery: Your surgeon will make a small opening in your wrist. A tiny camera will be used to guide the surgery as the transverse carpal ligament is cut, which releases the pressure on the median nerve.
• Open surgery: A two-inch incision will be made in your wrist, and a surgical instrument is used to cut the carpal ligament.

Both types of surgery are outpatient procedures performed under general or local anesthesia. After surgery, you may need to wear a wrist splint for 1 – 2 weeks. The recovery period following carpal tunnel surgery can vary, depending on the type of surgery you had, but in general, you can expect at least four weeks before you are back to normal without any activity restrictions.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition that can make everyday life feel painful. Whether you've been dealing with carpal tunnel for a while or you have just started to notice new symptoms, it's a good idea to seek treatment to prevent further damage. To receive personalized care for carpal tunnel in Lawrence, KS, schedule an appointment at Lawrence Family Practice Center.