Who Gets CTS?
This disabling
syndrome occurs more often in women than men, by a ratio of 3 to 1, usually
between the ages of 30 and 50 years. Also, CTS is seen more frequently
in people who tend to do forceful repetitive types of work, such as grocery
store checkers, assembly line workers, meat packers, typist, accountants,
writers, etc. Most patients generally visit their doctor with these complaints,
and the diagnosis is confirmed after physical examination and appropriate
nerve testing.
How is CTS Treated?
Treatment for
CTS depends upon the stage of the disease. In the early stage, the syndrome
can be reversible and is most often treated with appropriate modification
in activities, a removable wrist brace, and anti-inflammatory medicines.
In moderate stages of the disorder, especially if the numbness and pain
continues in the wrist and hand, a cortisone injection into the carpal
tunnel can be extremely beneficial. Surgical intervention in CTS is only
indicated in those patients in whom non-operative treatment has failed
to eliminate their symptoms. In patients with advanced disease, and especially
in those who have profound weakness or muscle atrophy, surgical intervention
should be done early. CTS should not be left untreated because it can
eventually cause permanent nerve damage.
A common treatment
of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a Carpal Tunnel Release.
