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Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common diagnoses in the United States. Yet many people do not fully understand this condition or recognize the symptoms.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow space inside the wrist surrounded by bones and ligaments. Tendons, the transverse carpal ligament and a major nerve, called the median nerve, pass from the forearm into the hand through the carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when a tendon thickens and enlarges, reducing space inside the carpal tunnel and compressing the median nerve.

"Numbness or tingling in the thumb, the index and middle fingers, and part of the ring finger are the most common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. Some patients also experience pain or weakness in the hands," says Christopher Sforzo, MD, an orthopedic hand surgeon at the Orthopaedic Center of Southwest Florida who has medical staff privileges at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center (LWRMC).

Experts do not know what causes carpal tunnel syndrome. Those who have certain diseases, such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, or those who abuse alcohol seem to be at greater risk. There is evidence that people who engage in repetitive tasks are more prone to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Get Help for Troublesome Symptoms
Often, patients with carpal tunnel syndrome first notice hand symptoms at night. Without treatment, their symptoms may progress and affect daily activities.

"We have good results treating carpal tunnel syndrome in the early stages," Dr. Sforzo says. "Those who delay treatment may find that their symptoms persist."

If you have symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, your doctor may recommend conservative treatments, including:

• Ergonomic changes at work or at home
• Splinting the hands at night
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Vitamin B6
• Steroid injections

When Surgery Is Needed
"Nonsurgical treatments may help relieve pressure on the median nerve, reduce pain and inflammation, and stimulate nerve healing," Dr. Sforzo says. "Patients who have other diseases or severe symptoms, or who do not improve in three to six months, may need surgery."

Christopher Sforzo, MD Orthopaedic Center of Southwest Florida 8340 Lakewood Ranch Blvd. Suite 370 Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 941-378-5100

Dr. Sforzo, who completed a fellowship in hand surgery and microsurgery at the University of Florida, performs minimally invasive surgery to treat patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. While a patient is under local anesthesia, Dr. Sforzo makes small incisions on the palm side of the patient's hand. An endoscope (a lighted optical instrument) with a camera is used to locate the transverse ligament. The ligament is severed with a small knife, which increases space in the carpal tunnel and relieves pressure on the median nerve.

"Most patients get almost immediate relief from their symptoms," Dr. Sforzo says.

For more information about carpal tunnel syndrome, please visit www.lakewoodranchmedicalcenter.com and click on Health Information in the left column. Then, click on Diseases & Conditions, the letter C and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.