At Chicago Neurological Services, we specialize in diagnosing and treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS), a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. Dr. Lenny Cohen, a board certified neurologis is dedicated to providing comprehensive care to help you manage your symptoms, alleviate discomfort, and improve your quality of life. Whether you are experiencing mild symptoms or severe discomfort, we offer personalized treatment plans to address your unique needs.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into the palm of your hand, becomes compressed or pinched at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that houses the median nerve and several tendons. When this tunnel becomes inflamed or narrowed due to repetitive hand movements, injury, or certain health conditions, it can lead to symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is most common in people who engage in repetitive hand motions or activities that require prolonged use of the hands, wrists, and fingers, such as typing, assembly line work, or using hand tools.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can vary in intensity, ranging from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or aching in the hand, wrist, or forearm
- Numbness or tingling, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Weakness in the hand or difficulty gripping objects
- Pain that worsens at night, often disrupting sleep
- A sensation of swelling in the fingers, even when no swelling is visible
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or holding a pen
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to seek professional medical advice from a neurologist to prevent further damage and receive the appropriate treatment.
Why Choose Chicago Neurological Services for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
At Chicago Neurological Services, we provide expert care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, combining advanced diagnostic tools, personalized treatment plans, and compassionate support. Our neurologist specialize in identifying the underlying causes of CTS and offer the most effective treatments to help you find relief and restore function.
Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At Chicago Neurological Services, we take a comprehensive approach to treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of non-surgical treatments, medications, and lifestyle adjustments to alleviate discomfort and improve wrist function. In more advanced cases, surgical intervention may be necessary.
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Wrist Splints: Wearing a splint at night can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve and relieving symptoms, especially during sleep.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises can help alleviate pressure on the median nerve and improve flexibility and function in the wrist.
- Ergonomic Modifications: Adjusting your workstation, using a more ergonomic keyboard, or changing your hand positioning can help reduce strain on the wrist.
- Steroid Injections: For inflammation and swelling, corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing swelling around the median nerve.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medications may be recommended to help reduce pain and inflammation.
2. Surgical Treatments
In cases where non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, surgery may be recommended. The most common procedure is carpal tunnel release surgery, which involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve to relieve pressure and allow for proper nerve function. Our neurologist works closely with you to determine the best course of action if surgery is needed.
Why Trust Chicago Neurological Services?
- Expert Neurologist: Our board-certified neurologist who specialize in treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other hand and wrist conditions.
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools: We utilize the latest diagnostic tools, including nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG), to accurately diagnose Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and determine the extent of nerve compression.
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Every patient’s condition is unique. We tailor treatment plans to meet your specific needs, ensuring the best possible outcome.
- Comprehensive Care: From initial consultation and diagnosis to post-treatment support, we provide holistic care to manage and treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome effectively.
- Minimally Invasive Procedures: We focus on providing non-surgical treatments first, with surgery considered only if necessary for long-term relief.
Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While some risk factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, such as genetics, are out of your control, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk:
- Take frequent breaks from repetitive hand and wrist movements.
- Practice good ergonomics: Adjust your workstation to ensure your wrists are in a neutral position.
- Use wrist supports or ergonomic tools to minimize strain during repetitive activities.
- Strengthen your wrist and hand muscles through regular exercises.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including managing conditions like diabetes or obesity, which can increase the risk of developing CTS.
Don’t Let Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Disrupt Your Life
If you are experiencing symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, don’t wait to seek treatment. At Chicago Neurological Services, our team is here to provide you with the expert care you need to relieve pain, restore function, and prevent further complications.