Most people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome in the past but many do not realize that one day, they too could suffer from it. Years of computer keyboard use with poor posture and too stress lead to the condition. Pain is the first sign of trouble but the wrists may feel numb and weak, too. You’ve taken the time to learn about it and you are not sure if you should have surgery to repair the damage, even if your doctor has suggested it to you.
You should think very hard before having surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. The fact is that many people suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome but have found alternative methods of relieve rather than resort to surgery. Surgery can solve the problem quickly, but is it as long lasting as you need it to be? Is it even in your price range?
Understanding why carpal tunnel syndrome happens is important in helping you decide your course of action. Most carpal tunnel syndrome happens in the wrists. It comes from typing too long, throwing a baseball, painting, or any job that requires a repeated action. The result of this repeated action causes the transverse carpal ligament to tighten up. The transverse carpal ligament is the ligament that bundles all of your other ligaments together at the wrist.
Sometimes, the hands and wrists feel weak and unable to be used properly. The pain can run through the hand and up the arm. Even your fingers may feel it. The more times you repeat the actions, the more pressure is placed on the ligaments and nerves. Over time, it becomes harder to do the same motions.
The surgical procedures for carpal tunnel are not hard to do, but it is an invasive procedure. The surgeon will sever the transverse carpal ligament. Initially this is not a problem, but over time, it can cause weakness in the arms and into the hands over time. Most people do benefit from the relief of pressure right away, though.
Aside from problems later on down the road, having this surgery requires at least 6 weeks of therapy and healing for the transverse carpal ligament. It isn’t a fun recovery, and the outcome is completely unknown. For these reasons alone you might consider some alternative techniques to relieving your carpal tunnel pain.
Through stretching and exercise, you can essentially lessen or completely mitigate the effects of carpal tunnel. By stretching the transverse carpal ligament, you can ensure that the median nerve will have no lingering exposure to pressure. Good posture and taking a few breaks from the repetitive tasks can also be a big help. Besides that, surgery can cost upwards of $10,000, and who has that kind of money when you can do stretches for free?
Sometimes, these alternative options may not be enough to avoid surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. Get a second opinion first. Be sure you are doing everything you can to avoid the surgery even working with a physical therapist.
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