Final answer:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is addressed by both nonsurgical and surgical treatments. Initial treatments include wrist splinting and medication, while persistent cases may require carpal tunnel release surgery to alleviate nerve compression.
Step-by-step explanation:
How Do Doctors Fix Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition where the median nerve is compressed within the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist. The condition causes symptoms like pain, numbness, and muscle weakness predominantly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Doctors can fix carpal tunnel syndrome using various methods. Initial treatment may include wrist splinting, avoiding activities that worsen the symptoms, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling.
If nonsurgical methods don't provide relief, surgery may be considered. The most common surgical procedure to fix CTS is called carpal tunnel release. During this surgery, the surgeon cuts the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. This increase in space within the carpal tunnel reduces compression of the nerve, which helps to alleviate symptoms. Post-surgery, recurrence of CTS is relatively rare, but without treatment, chronic nerve compression can lead to persistent pain and muscle atrophy in the affected hand.