Carpal tunnel syndrome
Causes, symptoms and treatment
Imagine waking up in the middle of the night because your hand is tingling or numb. Perhaps you feel like you can no longer move your fingers properly – as if they have fallen asleep. These symptoms are typical signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, one of the most common so-called constriction syndromes of the upper extremity. But what exactly is behind it and how can the problem be treated effectively? Here you can find out everything about the causes, symptoms and the latest treatment options – from gentle measures to targeted surgical interventions.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by a constriction of the median nerve in the carpal canal of the wrist. This constriction leads to pressure on the median nerve and can cause symptoms such as numbness, discomfort or pain in the hand and fingers.
Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a narrowing of the carpal tunnel, which can have various causes. The most common factors include
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome
The typical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include
- Numbness and discomfort in the fingers, especially the thumb, index and middle fingers
- Pain in the palm of the hand that can radiate to the forearm or shoulder
- Declining hand function and weakness in the muscles (especially the thumb)
- Worsening of symptoms at night or during certain movements. In severe cases, the disease can lead to permanent nerve damage and a loss of function in parts of the hand.
- Eingeschränkte Handfunktion – Die Beweglichkeit und Greifkraft der Hand kann durch die Beschwerden erheblich beeinträchtigt sein.
Diagnostics
- Physical examination and testing of hand function
- Ultrasound examination to visualize the median nerve
- Measurement of the nerve conduction velocity to determine the constriction
- X-ray or MRI to detect injuries or other changes. The diagnosis is made on the basis of the examination results in order to initiate the appropriate therapy.
Types of treatment - therapy and surgery
The treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome depends on the severity of the condition. A distinction is made between conservative and surgical measures.
- Konservative Behandlung: Diese umfasst entzündungshemmende Medikamente, Schienen zur Ruhigstellung oder Injektionen zur Linderung der Beschwerden.
- Operative Behandlung: Wenn konservative Methoden nicht helfen, kann eine Operation notwendig sein. Dabei wird das betroffene Ringband in einem kleinen Eingriff durchtrennt, um die Einengung zu beseitigen. Priv.-Doz. Dr. Farr führt diese Operation in der Wiener Privatklinik durch, um den Patienten eine optimale Versorgung zu gewährleisten.
Übungen zur Linderung
Surgical treatment
If conservative therapy is not sufficient or the symptoms are too severe, surgery is required. The operation is known as a carpal tunnel release. The carpal ligament is cut to reduce the pressure on the median nerve. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes and can be performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients report a significant improvement in their symptoms just a few days after the operation.
Conservative therapy
In mild to moderate cases, conservative therapy can help to alleviate the symptoms and avoid surgery. Possible measures include
3. Kräftigung der Unterarmmuskulatur
Gezielte Übungen mit einem weichen Ball oder Therapieknete stärken das System der Fingerbeugesehnen und können vorbeugend wirken.
Your specialist for hand surgery in Vienna - Dr. Sebastian Farr
Priv.-Doz. Dr. Sebastian Farr is a specialist in orthopaedics and hand surgery with many years of experience as a senior physician at the Orthopaedic Hospital Speising. At his surgery in the 1st district, he offers comprehensive advice and individual treatment options for diseases and injuries of the hand and upper extremities. From diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, Dr. Farr will accompany you personally and attaches great importance to precise diagnostics and targeted treatment. The aim is to restore hand function in the best possible way and to alleviate pain in the long term.
Arrange a consultation today by e-mail, online or by telephone and let Priv.-Doz. Dr. Sebastian Farr personally about your treatment options – for more comfort, quality of life and an active life!
FAQ - frequently asked questions about carpal tunnel syndrome
How do I know if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?
Typical signs are numbness, discomfort and pain in the hand, which may worsen at night.
When should I see a doctor?
If the symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or worsen, an examination by a hand surgeon is advisable.
How long does it take before I can work normally again after the operation?
The recovery time varies depending on the type of work. Many patients can return to lighter activities after a few days. For more physically demanding jobs, it can take several weeks before full resilience is restored.
Are there risk factors that favor the occurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Yes, factors such as repetitive strain on the wrist, illnesses such as diabetes or rheumatism and pregnancy can increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Welche Risiken gibt es bei einer Operation?
Wie bei jedem chirurgischen Eingriff gibt es Risiken, darunter Infektionen, Narbenbildung oder in seltenen Fällen Bewegungseinschränkungen. Dr. Farr bespricht diese individuell mit seinen Patienten.
