Carpal Tunnel Syndrome What to do about CTS?

What to do about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Initially, treatment involves resting the affected hand and wrist and avoiding the activities that caused or may worsen symptoms.  Night time immobilization of the wrist in a splint to avoid further damage from twisting or bending is often helpful.    Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and other nonprescription pain relievers, can ease the pain.   Ice packs, prednisone and / or lidocaine (injected directly into the wrist) can relieve swelling and pressure on the median nerve and provide relief.

Stretching and strengthening exercises are very important for people whose symptoms have improved.  If symptoms persist for 6 months or longer, your physician may recommend surgery to sever the band of tissue around the wrist (flexor retinaculum) to reduce pressure on the median nerve. 

The recurrence rate of carpal tunnel syndrome following treatment is high. The majority of patients never recover completely.  Reports show that the majority of Carpal Tunnel Release Surgeries are authorized again within 24 months of the initial procedure.

The best way to treat carpal tunnel syndrome is to prevent it.  Eliminating as many repetitive tasks as possible will help stave off the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The following suggestions can go a long way in preventing the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome:

1)    Take frequent breaks, rest from repetitive tasks is vital
2)    Use correct posture, postural stress can affect the nerves as they exit the spine
3)    Eliminate repetitive over-reaching.  Stretching for a mouse or phone on a regular basis generates postural stress.
4)    Stretching and regular exercise are of great help
5)    Ice pack application on aggravated wrists helps.
6)    Rotate your job duties when possible, ie don’t keyboard or mouse for hours on end if you can also be working on dictation or some other task that gives you a break from the computer.

Writers Bio


Dr. Steven R. Jones is a licensed Chiropractor in the state of California. He received his doctorate from Palmer College of Chiropractic-West in Sunnyvale, California. Dr. Jones has treated his patients for over 15 years at his own San Diego Chiropractic practice.

Dr. Jones is accepting new patients and would be happy to consult with you regarding your chiropractic needs. www.JonesPainRelief.com


Call Steve Jones at his San Diego Chiropractic Clinic

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