Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome is really a painful situation due to the median nerve of the arm. The nerve becomes compressed or traumatized where it travels through the carpal tunnel. Causes can differ <a href="http://local983.org/node/175041">Exceptional Hand Physicians of California and are not always fully understood. What's understood is that it is unpleasant!

The good news is that there are a number of treatments to effectively treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Treatment starts with a proper and thorough examination to determine the most suitable method to address the problem and to ensure that the problem is, in fact, carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms generally start gradually and progressively worsen. Typical signs include:

Tingling or numbness in your fingers or hand
Decreased touch power
Pain radiating in the hand

Symptoms are often first discovered while asleep or after getting out of bed each morning. As the condition worsens, pain, numbness, pain, and reduced power may occur within the day. In neglected cases, the muscles at the bottom of the thumb may waste away.

If your symptoms persist, and particularly if they affect your regular activities and sleep habits, you should be observed. Neglected, lasting muscle and nerve injury really can occur.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be mimiced by other conditions, so itas vital that you get a comprehensive and correct analysis prior to therapy. Diagnosis can often be given at the first office visit.

Analysis starts with a physical examination. Sometimes x-rays, lab tests, electrodiagnostic tests, ultrasounds, and MRIs are essential.

Treatment involves both non-operative and surgical options. That depends upon the intensity of the condition and how long it has continued. Non-operative therapy can include ergonomic modifications, splinting, hand therapy, medicine, and changes in lifestyle.

Dr. Cohen is distinguished for his surgical ability and for his judgment on when to first decide to try non-surgical options.Glenn D. Cohen, MD.

696 Hampshire Road, Suite 180
Westlake Village, CA 91361

(805) 370-6877