Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition (disease) in which one of the nerves in the wrist is pinched. The place where the nerve is pinched is called carpal tunnel.

This tunnel consists of carpal bones and a transverse wrist band (retinaculum flexorum). Through the tunnel run the median nerve (wrist nerve) and nine flexor tendons from the forearm to the fingers and thumb.

The entrapment (place where the nerve is trapped) of the nerve can come when swelling of the tissues in and around the tunnel makes the pressure in the tunnel worse.

Complaints in carpal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms (signs) of CTS can vary quite a bit. For example, you may suffer from:

A tingling and painful sensation or tingling in the palm or fingers. Especially in the thumb, index and middle fingers;
A numb feeling in the palm and/or fingers, especially in the thumb, index and middle fingers.
Feeling like the hand is swollen;
A radiating pain to the forearm, elbow and shoulder;
Loss of strength in your hand, causing you to randomly drop things from your hands.

Treatment

Often the symptoms can be relieved without surgery. In some cases, it helps to rest the nerve (at night). A detachable splint can help with this. This can be measured at the plaster room.

Sometimes your treating doctor may opt for a wrist splint along with an injection. This injection is placed in the palm side of the wrist and contains a strong anti-inflammatory (corticosteroids) and a small amount of anaesthetic (Lidocaine). This reduces swelling.

If all this does not help, surgery is necessary. An incision (small cut) is made in the wrist on the palm side. The roof of the carpal tunnel is split (cut lengthwise) to give the nerve more room.

For more information, read our leaflet on the condition and treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Reimbursement and prices

Your visit to Parkway Clinic Sommer is regularly reimbursed in the same way as a visit to the hospital. For this, check our fees page or if you have any questions, take contact with us.