Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common nerve condition affecting millions worldwide. It causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hands. Without treatment, symptoms can worsen, leading to muscle weakness and permanent nerve damage. Many assume surgery is the only solution, but most cases improve with non-surgical treatments. Regenerative medicine can relieve symptoms and help heal the underlying issue.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
CTS occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed. This nerve runs from the forearm through a narrow passage in the wrist, called the carpal tunnel. Compression leads to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Over time, gripping objects may become difficult, and pain can disrupt sleep.
Several factors increase the risk of CTS. Repetitive hand movements—like typing, texting, or playing musical instruments—can put stress on the wrist. Poor wrist positioning from bad ergonomics or sleeping habits can also increase pressure on the nerve. Health conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, and pregnancy-related swelling can add to the problem. Genetics also play a role. Some people naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel, making them more prone to nerve compression.
How to Diagnose Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Getting the right diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Doctors start by checking symptoms like numbness, tingling, and hand weakness. Many people with CTS find that shaking their hands provides temporary relief, which can be a telltale sign.
A physical exam tests grip strength, wrist flexibility, and nerve sensitivity. The Tinel sign test, which involves tapping on the median nerve, can confirm tingling sensations. More advanced tests like nerve conduction studies (NCS) and electromyography (EMG) measure how well the nerve is functioning. If the nerve signals are slow, CTS is likely. High-resolution ultrasound imaging can also detect nerve swelling, sometimes providing a clearer diagnosis than standard nerve tests.
Best Non-Surgical Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
For mild to moderate CTS, non-surgical treatments can relieve symptoms and prevent further damage. The first step is improving ergonomics. Using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, keeping wrists in a neutral position, and wearing a wrist brace at night can help. These changes reduce pressure on the nerve and prevent worsening symptoms.
Physical therapy and exercises also improve wrist mobility and strength. Nerve gliding exercises help the nerve move freely through the wrist, reducing compression. Stretching and strengthening exercises support the muscles around the wrist, improving function.
Regenerative Medicine: A Better Alternative to Steroids
Doctors often prescribe steroid injections for CTS, but they only provide short-term relief. Steroids can also weaken tissues and make future surgery less effective. A better option is regenerative medicine, which helps repair nerve damage instead of just masking symptoms.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – Uses healing factors from the patient’s own blood to repair nerves and tissues.
- Platelet Lysate Injections – A refined version of PRP, offering faster and more effective relief for nerve-related issues.
- Prolotherapy – Uses dextrose to strengthen ligaments, reducing pressure on the median nerve.
Studies show PRP and platelet lysate work better than steroids for CTS. These treatments target the root cause and promote healing, rather than just reducing symptoms temporarily.
When Is Surgery Necessary?
Surgery should only be considered for severe cases. Signs that surgery may be needed include constant numbness, significant muscle loss, and extreme slowing of nerve function in NCS or EMG tests. However, before choosing surgery, make sure the diagnosis is correct. Other conditions, like tendinitis or a pinched nerve in the neck, can mimic CTS symptoms.
Patients should also try all non-surgical treatments first. Avoiding steroid injections is crucial since they can damage tissue and worsen long-term outcomes. Instead, PRP, platelet lysate, and prolotherapy offer safer and more effective solutions.
Key Takeaways
- Early treatment prevents nerve damage and worsening symptoms.
- Non-surgical options like wrist support, therapy, and regenerative medicine work well.
- PRP and platelet lysate provide a safe, effective alternative to steroids and surgery.
If you are struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome, do not wait to seek treatment. The sooner you address the issue, the better your outcome will be. Watch the full video for expert insights, and reach out to us to explore non-surgical treatment options.
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