Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition resulting from pressure on the median nerve, which passes through the forearm, palm, and some of the fingers. It can trigger pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers or hand. Unfortunately, in some cases, carpal tunnel can be difficult to treat.
Thankfully, patients today have access to more treatments than ever for carpal tunnel syndrome. Here are the most effective options:
Activity Adjustments
One of the first recommendations for carpal tunnel syndrome is to avoid activities that trigger your symptoms. This includes activities that involve repetitive or forceful hand or wrist movements, like using hand-held power tools, painting, landscaping, construction work, and sewing.
Splinting
Wearing a wrist splint that holds the wrist in a neutral position can help treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Many people experience relief while wearing a splint at night, as it’s common to bend the wrist while sleeping.
Pain Medications
Over-the-counter pain medications can help alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms. While they don’t address the underlying cause of carpal tunnel and therefore aren’t a lasting solution, these medications can help with pain management.
NSAIDs are the most common type of medication and can be obtained without a prescription. Examples include ibuprofen and acetaminophen.
Regenerative Medicine
Regenerative medicine is a cutting-edge treatment option for cases of carpal tunnel syndrome that don’t resolve with at-home care. This facet of medicine involves regenerating damaged tissue by stimulating the body’s natural healing process.
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) and stem cell therapy are regenerative treatments that may help with carpal tunnel syndrome. PRP injections work by releasing growth factors, which stimulate the body’s production of reparative cells. Stem cells can regenerate into any type of cell, so when they’re directed toward damaged tissue, they stimulate tissue healing.
Browse the database at Regenerative Medicine Now to find a regenerative doctor or clinic near you!
