Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that negatively affects daily life and can limit hand and wrist function. It is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist level and is particularly associated with activities such as computer use, repetitive hand movements or working in incorrect positions. Romatem Hospital offers modern and comprehensive treatment modalities to manage the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome and improve the hand and wrist health of its patients.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow canal in the wrist area through which the median nerve and several tendons pass. The median nerve controls the thumb, index finger, middle finger and part of the ring finger. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of this nerve and causes various symptoms in the hand and wrist.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Repetitive Movements: Repetitive hand movements such as computer use, knitting, sewing.
• Wrong Working Positions: Non-ergonomic work environments.
• Wrist Injuries: Swelling and compression in the wrist resulting from traumas such as falls or impacts.
• Chronic Diseases: Diseases such as diabetes, thyroid problems or rheumatoid arthritis.
• Pregnancy: Edema formation in the wrist due to increased fluid retention in the body.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome may show different symptoms depending on the level of progression of the disease. These symptoms include:

• Numbness and tingling in the hands and fingers.
• Increased numbness and pain during the night.
• Weakness in hand muscles, inability to grasp objects.
• Loss of sensation in the thumb and other fingers.
• Pain and discomfort radiating along the arm.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Methods

It adopts a modern and multidisciplinary approach in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Each patient's condition is evaluated in detail and a treatment plan is prepared according to individual needs. The main methods applied are as follows:

1. Medical Treatment

• Anti-inflammatory Medications: Used to reduce inflammation and swelling on the nerve.
• Painkillers: Recommended to alleviate pain and manage symptoms.

2. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

• Personalized Exercises: Exercise programs that strengthen the hand and wrist muscles, increase flexibility and reduce nerve compression are applied.
• Balance and Coordination Exercises: Improves hand and finger movements, thereby increasing daily functionality.

3. Ankle Supports and Splints

• Application: Reduces pressure on the median nerve by holding the wrist in the correct position.
• Effects: It particularly helps alleviate symptoms throughout the night.

4. Manual Therapy

• Application: Manual therapies to relax the muscles in the wrist and hand area.
• Effects: It reduces muscle tension, increases circulation, and alleviates pain.

5. Electrotherapy and Ultrasound Treatment

• Electrotherapy: Pain management and recovery are accelerated through nerve stimulation.
• Ultrasound Therapy: Penetrates deep into the tissue, reducing inflammation and improving blood circulation.

6. Dry Needling Therapy

• Application: Thin needles are applied to the trigger points to relieve muscle spasms.
• Effects: It alleviates tension and pain in the ankle.

7. Non-Surgical Interventions

• Corticosteroid Injections: In severe cases, injections can be given into the nerve area to reduce inflammation and swelling.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Process

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is tailored to the individual needs of each patient:

1. Assessment and Diagnosis:
   • Patient history and symptoms are analyzed in detail.
   • The diagnosis is confirmed with imaging methods such as electromyography (EMG) and ultrasound.
2. Creating a Treatment Plan:
   • A treatment plan consisting of medical treatment, physiotherapy and other methods is prepared.
3. Implementation of Treatment:
   • Treatment sessions are administered by specialized physiotherapists and physicians.
   • During treatment, the patient's progress is monitored regularly.
4. Education and Home Programs:
   • The patient is informed about exercises they can do at home for symptom management and prevention.
   • Ergonomic recommendations to protect hand and wrist health.

Advantages of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment offers many advantages to patients:

• Pain Reduction: Through treatment methods, pain is alleviated, and daily life becomes more comfortable.
• Enhancing Mobility: Mobility improves with the strengthening of wrist and hand muscles.
• Long Term Solutions: Permanent solutions are offered to reduce the risk of nerve compression recurrence.
• Personalized Approach: The best results are achieved with treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of each patient.