If you’ve been dealing with numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands, it could be more than just overuse – it might be carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition can make simple tasks like gripping, writing, or even sleeping more difficult. Without treatment, symptoms can worsen and lead to long-term nerve damage.
Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics’ board-certified hand and wrist specialists treat carpal tunnel syndrome. With both non-surgical and surgical solutions, our team can relieve your wrist pain at our locations in Brick, Edison, Freehold, Lacey, Manahawkin, Red Bank, Toms River, and Wall, New Jersey.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve – which controls sensation and movement in parts of the hand – gets compressed within the narrow carpal tunnel in the wrist. This can lead to symptoms such as:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
- Weak grip strength or dropping objects unexpectedly
- Pain that worsens at night or with certain hand movements
- A feeling of swelling in the fingers, even if they don’t appear swollen
The condition can develop over time due to repetitive hand use, wrist injuries, arthritis, or medical conditions like diabetes. If left untreated, these symptoms can become more severe and potentially cause permanent nerve damage.
How Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
Treatment for CTS depends on how advanced your condition is. In the early stages, non-surgical options are often enough to relieve symptoms:
- Wrist bracing to keep the wrist in a neutral position and lessen pressure on the nerve
- Activity modifications to avoid repetitive movements that worsen symptoms
- Physical therapy for wrist strength and flexibility
- Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections to reduce swelling
If your symptoms persist or worsen, we may recommend carpal tunnel release surgery. This procedure relieves pressure on the median nerve by creating more space within the carpal tunnel. OIB Ortho surgeons use minimally invasive techniques whenever possible for your convenience.
Why Choose OIB Ortho for Carpal Tunnel Treatment?
Choosing the right specialist makes all the difference in your recovery. At Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics, our board-certified hand and wrist specialists have extensive experience treating carpal tunnel syndrome with the most advanced techniques. Whether your condition requires non-surgical treatment or minimally invasive surgery, our team will customize your care plan to your needs.
Patients trust OIB Ortho for quality care at every stage of treatment. With on-site imaging, physical therapy, and surgical expertise, our specialists can restore your hand and wrist strength so you can get back to pain-free living.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have carpal tunnel syndrome?
The most common signs are numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, often worse at night. Weak grip strength or difficulty handling small objects can also be indicators.
Is surgery always necessary?
No, many cases can be managed with bracing, therapy, and medication. Surgery is typically recommended if symptoms persist or significantly impact daily life.
What is recovery like after carpal tunnel surgery?
Most patients can return to light activities within days, with full recovery taking a few weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition and the type of procedure performed.
What are the early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Numbness, tingling, or a "pins and needles" feeling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers are common early signs. Symptoms often worsen at night or after repetitive hand movements and may include weakness or difficulty gripping objects.
Can physical therapy help relieve carpal tunnel symptoms?
Yes, physical therapy can help by improving wrist mobility, reducing nerve pressure, and correcting movement patterns. Stretching, strengthening, and ergonomic adjustments may ease mild to moderate symptoms, but severe cases may require further treatment.
Specialized Solutions for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome won’t go away on its own, but the right care can bring real relief. Orthopaedic Institute Brielle Orthopaedics specializes in treating hand and wrist conditions to help you feel comfortable again.
Call 732-800-9000 today to schedule a consultation at our locations in Brick, Edison, Freehold, Lacey, Manahawkin, Red Bank, Toms River, and Wall, NJ.