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Pain in Your Hand, Wrist, or Elbow? When to Seek Help

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pain in hand, wrist, or elbow

Pain is the body’s way of signaling that something might be amiss. But what if the pain occurs in your hand, wrist, or elbow? How do you determine whether it’s a concern that necessitates medical attention or something you can manage at home? Dr. Avery Arora, a hand doctor in Southeast Michigan, provides insights on when to seek help for hand pain, wrist pain, or elbow pain.

Understanding the Source of Pain

Sometimes, the cause of pain is apparent – perhaps you’ve had a recent fall or engaged in strenuous activity. However, in other cases, pain seems to emerge out of nowhere. Dr. Arora explains that pain can result from various factors, including infection, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions like gout or diabetes-related neuropathy. Additionally, the origin of pain might not always be in your arm; a pinched nerve in the neck can radiate pain throughout the arm. It’s essential to consider your activity level and the wear and tear on your body, especially in cases of joint pain or tendinitis. While aging may bring some joint discomfort, it’s not inevitable for everyone.

 

Common Causes of Hand, Wrist, and Elbow Pain

Several activities or conditions can predispose individuals to pain in these areas:

Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow can result from various activities, not just golf. It typically involves repeated bending, grasping, and twisting of the arm and wrist, causing inflammation in the tendons connecting the elbow to the forearm.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

This condition affects the hand and wrist, often caused by repetitive finger and hand use, leading to swelling around the wrist and pressure on the median nerve.

Arthritis

Types like osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are known to affect the fingers and hands, causing joint pain due to cartilage breakdown.

Muscle Strains and Ligament Sprains

These injuries can occur in the thumb, finger, and wrist, resulting in pain throughout the hand. Hand sprains, wrist sprains, and/or elbow sprains, often follow an injury or stretching of joint ligaments.

Other Causes

Additional factors contributing to elbow, wrist, or hand pain include Kienböck’s disease, biceps tendonitis, De Quervain’s tenosynovitis, trigger finger, mallet finger, ulnar wrist pain, ganglion cysts, fractures, and tennis elbow. Because there are so many variables, we do always advise to seek medical help as soon as possible.

 

Assessing Your Pain

Healthcare professionals use triage to determine the need for urgent medical care, and you can apply a similar approach at home. If the pain is excruciating or immobilizes you (e.g., a wrist fracture), seek immediate medical attention. However, for less severe pain, consider these questions:

• Does pressing on the area worsen the pain?
• Is there redness or inflammation?
• Is the area swollen or stiff?
• On a pain scale of 1 to 10 (1 being minimal and 10 the worst), how would you rate your pain?

If you answer “yes” to the first three questions or rate your pain as 6 to 10, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. For “no” answers and pain levels at 1 to 3, you can start with home treatment.

 

DIY Care for Hand, Wrist, or Elbow Pain

For manageable symptoms, you can begin with self-care to alleviate discomfort:
1. Apply ice for new-onset pain or heat if it persists.
2. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.
3. Consider using a stretchy elastic bandage or compression device for painful or swollen areas.
4. If your pain results from overexertion or repetitive motion (e.g., tennis elbow), rest from the activity and allow your body to recover.

 

When the Pain Persists

Even tolerable pain warrants attention if it persists. If home treatment doesn’t yield results after a few days, consult a healthcare provider. Be sure to provide comprehensive information about your activities and medications or supplements you’re taking. Doctors can identify underlying issues contributing to persistent pain. While most non-worrisome conditions resolve in a few days, acute symptoms like severe swelling, redness, pain, or deformity may require urgent evaluation and care.

Understanding when to seek help for hand, wrist, or elbow pain is crucial for your overall well-being. By assessing your symptoms and considering their severity, you can make informed decisions about treatment. Remember, pain should never be ignored, but neither should it cause unnecessary alarm. Proper evaluation and care can ensure a swift return to comfort and functionality. These surgical measures may be necessary for various reasons, including joint involvement, open fractures, or loose bone fragments affecting ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels.

If you’re in need of expert care for hand and wrist fractures, contact a MI hand doctor for specialized guidance and treatment. There are many reputable hand doctor options from the Ascension or Beaumont healthcare systems, or you can choose Top Doc Dr. Avery Arora of Arora Hand Surgery. You can schedule an appointment at one of Dr. Arora’s four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan today.

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Conditions Hands Treatments Wrists

A Top Michigan Hand Doctor’s Guide to Understanding Hand and Wrist Fractures

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Hand and Wrist Fractures

Hand and wrist fractures encompass a spectrum of injuries involving cracks or breaks in the bones of your wrist, hand, or fingers. These injuries can arise from various causes, with the most frequent occurrence being a distal radius fracture – typically the result of attempting to cushion a fall with an outstretched hand. I’m sure just the thought of that is making you cringe because we’ve all been there.

Other common fractures include those of the scaphoid bone, metacarpals, and phalanges (small finger bones). Let’s dive into more detail to better understand hand and wrist fractures and their symptoms.

Signs and Symptoms of Hand and/or Wrist Fractures

Partaking in activities like in-line skating or snowboarding can heighten your risk of these fractures, as can conditions like osteoporosis, where bones become brittle. Recognizing and addressing hand and wrist fractures promptly is vital. Failing to do so could result in misaligned healing, impacting everyday tasks like writing or buttoning a shirt. Swift intervention also minimizes pain and stiffness.

Hand and Wrist Fractures

Indications of a Hand or Wrist Fracture Can Include:

• Intense pain that may worsen with hand or wrist movement, gripping, or squeezing.
• Swelling.
• Tenderness.
• Bruising.
• Obvious deformities, such as a bent wrist.

A Hand/Wrist Fracture Diagnosis

To diagnose a hand or wrist fracture, a physical examination of the affected area is usually accompanied by X-rays. Additional imaging methods can provide more detailed insights, such as:

• CT scan: This technology combines X-rays from different angles to create cross-sectional images, uncovering fractures that may be missed by standard X-rays and identifying soft tissue and blood vessel injuries.

• MRI: This technique uses powerful magnets and radio waves to generate detailed images of bones and soft tissues. MRIs are highly sensitive and can detect even minor fractures and ligament injuries.

Treatment of a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Proper alignment of fractured bone ends is crucial. Your doctor may perform a reduction, repositioning bone fragments, either with local or general anesthesia. Moving uninjured fingers regularly during healing is important to prevent stiffness. Immobilization via splints or casts restricts movement for optimal healing. Keeping the hand elevated above the elbow reduces swelling and pain.

Medications for a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Pain relief can be attained with over-the-counter pain relievers. Narcotic medications are rarely necessary, and NSAIDs might help with pain but could hamper bone healing if used long-term. If there’s an open fracture (where skin near the wound site is broken), antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent bone infection.

Hand Therapy after a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Following cast or splint removal, hand therapy aids in restoring movement and minimizing stiffness. While rehabilitation can be lengthy, it is instrumental in achieving complete healing.

Surgical Options if You Have a Hand/Wrist Fracture

Monitoring progress via X-rays is critical, as bones can shift even after reduction and immobilization. Surgery might be required in cases of bone movement, and options include:

• Closed reduction and pinning: Temporary pins hold aligned fractures until healing, after which they’re removed.

• External fixation: A metal frame outside the body immobilizes fractures with pins passing through the skin and bone. The frame is removed once healing occurs.

• Open reduction and internal fixation: This involves implanting pins, plates, rods, or screws to hold bones in place. Bone grafts might also be employed.

These surgical measures may be necessary for various reasons, including joint involvement, open fractures, or loose bone fragments affecting ligaments, nerves, or blood vessels. If you’re in need of expert care for hand and wrist fractures, contact a MI hand doctor for specialized guidance and treatment. There are many reputable hand doctor options from the Ascension or Beaumont healthcare systems, or you can choose Top Doc Dr. Avery Arora of Arora Hand Surgery. You can schedule an appointment at one of Dr. Arora’s four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan today.

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Conditions Treatments Wrists

Understanding the Difference between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

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In today’s fast-paced world, where technology dominates our daily lives, repetitive movements and extended periods of computer usage have become the norm. Unfortunately, these habits can lead to various health issues, including nerve compression disorders like carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). While both conditions affect the upper extremities and cause discomfort, it is crucial to understand their unique characteristics and how they differ. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome to help you better understand and manage these conditions.

 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) 

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome primarily affects the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed or irritated. This can result from repetitive hand movements, such as typing or using a computer mouse, or conditions like arthritis or wrist injuries.

Common Symptoms of CTS 
  • Numbness, tingling, or burning sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger.
  • Pain or discomfort that radiates from the wrist up the arm.
  • Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects or perform fine motor tasks.
  • Symptoms tend to worsen at night or during activities that involve bending the wrist.

the Difference between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (CuTS) 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome affects the ulnar nerve, which passes through a narrow tunnel on the inside of the elbow called the cubital tunnel. This nerve is responsible for supplying sensation and controlling some of the muscles in the hand and forearm. CuTS occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated, often due to prolonged or repetitive elbow bending or leaning on the elbow for extended periods.

Common Symptoms of CuTS 
  • Numbness or tingling sensation in the ring and little fingers.
  • Weakness in the hand, particularly in the grip or pinch.
  • Pain or discomfort along the inside of the elbow or forearm.
  • Symptoms may worsen with elbow flexion or activities that involve bending the elbow.
Distinguishing Factors 

While both CTS and CuTS involve nerve compression, they differ in terms of the affected nerves and the locations of discomfort:

  • Affected Nerves: CTS involves compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, while CuTS affects the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel inside the elbow.
  • Distribution of Symptoms: CTS primarily affects the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. In contrast, CuTS commonly causes symptoms in the ring and little fingers.
  • Triggering Factors: CTS is often associated with repetitive hand and wrist movements, whereas CuTS is commonly caused by prolonged elbow flexion or pressure on the elbow.
  • Anatomical Differences: The carpal tunnel is located at the base of the palm, while the cubital tunnel is found on the inside of the elbow.

 

Treatment and Management for CTS and CuTS 

For both conditions, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial. Non-surgical approaches for CTS and CuTS include:

  • Resting the affected area and avoiding repetitive movements that exacerbate the symptoms.
  • Applying ice packs to reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Wearing splints or braces to support the affected area and relieve pressure.
  • Physical therapy exercises to improve strength, flexibility, and posture.
  • In severe cases or when conservative methods fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the affected nerve.

Understanding the differences between carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective management. While both conditions involve nerve compression and share some similarities in symptoms, they affect different nerves and have distinct locations of discomfort.

CTS primarily affects the median nerve in the carpal tunnel of the wrist, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. On the other hand, CuTS affects the ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel of the elbow, leading to numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ring and little fingers.

Identifying the triggering factors is crucial as well. CTS is commonly associated with repetitive hand and wrist movements, while CuTS is often caused by prolonged elbow flexion or pressure on the elbow.

Both conditions can often be managed conservatively through rest, splinting, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. However, in severe cases or when conservative methods fail, surgical intervention may be necessary to relieve pressure on the affected nerve. 

If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome, it may be time to get in touch with top MI hand surgeon Dr. Avery Arora. You can schedule an appointment at one of his four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan.

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Hands Wrists

When to See a Hand Doctor About Hand or Wrist Pain

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When to See a Hand Doctor About Hand or Wrist Pain

Your hands and wrists are incredibly important to your ability to work and play. Imagine trying to cook a meal, play catch with your kids, or even type up documents at work without the full dexterity and strength of your hands. It’s not a pretty picture, and anyone who’s ever experienced hand or wrist pain – even temporarily – can tell you how difficult it is to grip a soda can, a wrench, or even a pen with that feeling of pins and needles running through your palm and fingers. If this all hits home for you, hopefully this blog gives you a better idea when to see a hand doctor for that hand or wrist pain that refuses to go away.

It can be difficult to tell when to see a hand doctor or hand surgeon is necessary. We know questions such as these can play a role in how quickly someone decides to seek help:

  • Will this pain eventually go away?
  • Can I heal this on my own?
  • Do I really want to know what’s wrong?

We’ve seen many cases where a patient pinched a nerve in their hand, for example, and while it did heal on its own over a period of several weeks, the pinched nerve was indicative of a larger, more chronic problem. In general, if there are questions and a decreased ability to live your normal day-to-day life, we recommend calling a top hand doctor for an appointment immediately. Michiganders, here are some specific cases that absolutely warrant a call to your local Michigan hand specialist:

 

Prolonged Tingling or Numbness

Tingling and numbness – the feeling like your hand has gone “to sleep” – may be early symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. If you hold your hands in a position that’s not ergonomically correct for long periods of time, you can compress the carpal tunnel, through which the main nerves to your hand travel. If those nerves are pinched, serious and permanent damage can be done.

If you notice your hands falling asleep regularly, or you get that pins and needles feeling for longer than a few moments, it’s time to call a hand doctor such as Dr. Avery Arora. Getting a proper diagnosis by a hand specialist now could save you a lot of pain and potentially a surgery that could have been avoided.

If you develop carpal tunnel and other repetitive motion injuries in the hands and wrists early, you can usually treat them with over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (aspirin, etc.), an ergonomic brace or stabilizer, and/or physical hand therapy.

 

Joint Pain in Your Hand or Wrist

Having trouble bending or flexing your fingers or your wrist? It’s time to call a hand doctor immediately. This may be a sign of either rheumatic arthritis or osteoarthritis, either of which can be treated, but, again, treatment is much more effective and much less invasive if you catch it early. For example, if you wait until you have lost function in your hands, you may never recover that function or you may need surgery to regain it.

When to See a Hand Doctor About Hand or Wrist Pain

Swelling in Your Hand or Wrist

Swelling in the wrist joints or in the joints of your fingers could be due to arthritis, but it could also be a symptom of a repetitive motion injury. Repeating the same motions can put increased strain and stress on the muscles and ligaments of your hands and wrists, which can then become inflamed, causing swelling, tenderness, pain, and/or numbness. Talk to your hand doctor right away to treat swelling in your hands, wrists, and/or your elbows before it becomes a bigger problem than it already is.

If you’ve been putting off speaking with a hand doctor about a hand, wrist, or elbow issue that has been bothering you, it may be time to get in touch with top MI hand surgeon Dr. Avery Arora. You can schedule an appointment at one of his four offices in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb, or Howell, Michigan.

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Conditions Hands Wrists

Catch the Early Signs of Arthritis in Your Wrists and Hands

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early signs of arthritis

Very little in the world can make you feel older or more helpless than developing arthritis in your hands, body parts we often times take for granted. Fortunately, while there is no known cure for either rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, if you catch the early signs of arthritis in your wrists and hands, treatment is possible. Hand Doctor Avery Arora can recommend ways to keep your hands and wrists flexible and strong for years to come.

First, let’s discuss the two types of arthritis and how they differ from one another. Then, we’ll get into the signs and symptoms that indicate the following:

  • if you’re developing arthritis
  • when to see a hand doctor
  • what kinds of treatment are available to you

 

Rheumatoid Arthritis v. Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that adversely affects the cells in your body that keep your joints coated and lubricated, whereas osteoarthritis is the “wear and tear” arthritis. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, it seems to be linked to certain genetic components in association with environmental factors, including bacterial or viral infections.

Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is caused by aging joints, obesity, and/or trauma to a joint (or joints). Osteoarthritis can affect just one joint or many. Rheumatoid arthritis tends to affect joints symmetrically. So, if you have fairly uniform symptoms in both of your hands and/or wrists, it is more likely that you have rheumatoid arthritis than osteoarthritis. To be absolutely sure, though, it’s best to talk with a your hand doctor for a proper diagnosis.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

If you exhibit any or all of the following symptoms, it is likely that you have arthritis in your hands and/or wrists, and it’s time to call the hand doctor:

  • Stiffness, pain, and/or swelling in the fingers, hands, and/or wrists
  • Warm hand or wrist joints, especially if they’re tender to the touch
  • Finger joint deformities
  • Numbness and/or tingling in hands and fingers
  • Pain, stiffness, and/or swelling that lasts more than an hour

Arthritis in the hands can be a serious problem, especially if you use your hands for your work. Whether you work in an office or a garage, pain and stiffness in your hands and wrists can mean major issues for your job. So, if you exhibit any of these symptoms, call a hand specialist immediately. This disorder will not just go away if left untreated.

 

Arthritis Treatment

Depending on how severe your arthritis is, your doctor may prescribe one of many treatment options. For mild arthritic pain, nSAIDs (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin) may be effective enough to relieve pain and swelling. Some patients require a special wrist brace to stabilize the joints and keep them in the proper position so as not to cause any more damage.

Dr. Arora, Michigan’s top hand surgeon, may also recommend a change of diet and stress management, physical therapy, and/or rest and exercise. In some cases, surgery is necessary, but this can often be avoided if the disorder is caught and treated early. If you suspect that you’re suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, make an appointment with your hand doctor today.

Here at Arora Hand Surgery, we care about your health. If you are feeling hand or wrist discomfort and worry that it may be the first signs of arthritis, visit Dr. Avery Arora at one of his southeast Michigan offices located in West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell.

 

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Elbows Hands Wrists

Common Ping Pong Injuries & How to Prevent Them

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preventing table tennis hand injuries

For a game that is generally considered to be mild on the activity spectrum of sports, ping pong boasts a fairly strong injury record among its players. Here at Arora Hand Surgery, we see injuries resulting from the game pretty regularly, but the good news is, our patients’ injuries are usually treatable and have quick recovery times. In this blog, we’ll talk about common ping pong injuries and how to prevent them.

Due to its abrupt and bursts-of-movement nature, ping pong’s common injuries usually occur to the limb that holds the paddle. In the upper extremities, the wrist, elbow, and shoulder joints are the most vulnerable injury spots, with ankles coming in at a close second.

 

How dangerous is ping pong?

As one of the most popular sports in the world, this all-age sport is generally considered to be on the safer side of extracurricular activities. When injuries do occur, it’s usually in players who perform at high levels of athleticism and play very regularly. When pain begins to occur, we see that it’s due to bad stroke habits, hitting too hard, and not warming up correctly.

What should you do when you feel pain?

First, we want to clarify that when muscles contract regularly, tenderness is to be expected. However, if you notice that the tenderness or “ache” has evolved into a dull or sharp pain, we encourage you to stop playing and see a physician immediately if the pain does not go away after 24 hours.

What are the most common injuries from ping pong (or table tennis)?

There are several injuries that occur from ping pong, the following are the ones we see the most often at our office:

Tennis elbow – a painful condition identified by inflammation of tendons that connect the hand to the elbow. This is usually caused by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm.

Wrist sprain – this occurs when the strong ligaments that support the wrist stretch far beyond their limits or actually tear from a twisted force.

Rotator cuff injury – these account for around 10% of the injuries we see from ping pong. They are caused by progressive wear and tear of the tendon tissue over time.

How to prevent ping pong or “table tennis” injury:

  1. Choose a lighter racket.
  2. Wear stabilizing wristbands.
  3. Warm up!
  4. Learn about the energy linking cycle and how it can prevent injury in the sport of ping pong.
  5. Stop playing when an ache has progressed into a pain.

ping pong hand injuries

Diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ping pong, or table tennis, injuries are very important for your safety. If you think you’ve suffered an injury or want to know more about hand, wrist, and elbow injury treatment options, make an appointment to see Dr. Arora, the hand specialist himself, at his West Bloomfield, Warren, Macomb Township, or Howell office.

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Treatments Wrists

Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Be Cured?

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Can carpal tunnel syndrome be cured? While there is no official cure, there are many remedies. In this image, a man at his desk is holding his painful wrist.

Can carpal tunnel syndrome be cured?

It’s a question wrist doctors and scientists have been trying to answer for decades. The simple answer is “yes and no.” …

OK, so that’s not so simple. Allow us to explain.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be alleviated for a certain amount of time, but it might flare up days, weeks, or months later. In other words, many types of carpal tunnel syndrome treatments are very effective, but they may be temporary.

A more permanent solution to cure the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome is surgery, but this option is typically reserved for situations where self-help or medication do not alleviate the symptoms.

On the other hand, you may experience carpal tunnel syndrome pain only once in your life and never again depending on your lifestyle.

Self-Care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Even though there might not be a true cure for carpal tunnel syndrome, the good news is that you have many options for self-care. Dr. Arora will go over these treatments with you, but here is an overview of some of the most common remedies.

Wearing wrist braces while you sleep

It’s hard to figure out how to rest your wrists while you sleep. Sometimes you lean your head on them. Other times they’re under a pillow. Every now and then they’re over your head or under another part of your body. All of these positions could lead to pain or numbness in the wrists.

Wearing wrist braces at night can help protect your wrists and keep them straight, thereby alleviating the symptoms.

Investing in ergonomic equipment and furniture

If your job requires extensive use of your wrists, you or your employer may wish to obtain ergonomically designed chairs, keyboards, and other equipment. For jobs that require the use of manual or power tools, consider wearing wrist support if possible.

Watching your posture

Your mama told you not to slouch as you were walking. Now, your wrist doctor is telling you not to slouch as you’re sitting.

If you use a computer throughout the day, you may be tempted to roll your shoulders forward, but don’t do that. Your body wasn’t made that way, so unnaturally slouching will only make wrist pain come on faster.

Sit up straight with your shoulders back and comfortably aligned as often as possible.

Taking frequent breaks

We’re not trying to get you fired here. When we say “frequent breaks,” we simply mean taking 20 seconds to stop what you’re doing and then stretch your hand and shoulder muscles before getting back to work.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by tension in your wrists, so loosening up that area every now and then should help.

Medication & Surgical Options

When combined with self-care, anti-inflammatory medications can be effective in relieving the symptoms. Some patients may find relief with steroid injections as well, so ask Dr. Arora about that option.

For those with lingering symptoms, wrist surgery may provide a more long-term cure for carpal tunnel syndrome. The surgery entails cutting the ligament that forms of the top of the tunnel on the palm side of the hand. The goal is to enlarge the carpal tunnel in order to decrease pressure on the median nerve.

For carpal tunnel syndrome treatment in Howell, Warren, West Bloomfield, or Macomb Township, make an appointment with Dr. Arora through our website or by calling (248) 220-7747. He will analyze your symptoms in order to determine the cause of your wrist pain and then work with you to create a treatment regimen that’s right for you.

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Conditions Wrists

Why Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Happen?

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Why does carpal tunnel syndrome happen? It's based on a variety of factors, such as the use of hand tools as shown in this image.

Why does carpal tunnel syndrome happen?

It’s a question we hear often at our hand doctor’s offices in Howell, West Bloomfield, Warren, and Macomb Township. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common conditions we treat.

In fact, more than 4 million people are affected by the syndrome. According to the Workers’ Compensation Institute, approximately 230,000 carpal tunnel release surgeries are performed every year

Determining the exact cause of CTS in order to prevent it can be challenging. Why carpal tunnel syndrome happens is based on a combination of many factors, and these factors range from gender to career choice.

CTS Defined

Before we get into the whys, here is a broad overview of what carpal tunnel syndrome is.

In general terms, CTS is a pinched nerve in the wrist. The phrase carpal tunnel itself refers to a space in the wrist where nine tendons and the median nerve pass from the arm into the hand.

When the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes pressed, squeezed, or inflamed at the wrist, the result may be symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. They include numbness, pain, burning, tingling, and weakness in the wrist, palm of the hand, and along the fingers, especially the thumb and index finger, as well as a weaker grip and a tendency to drop things more often.

In other words, carpal tunnel syndrome is the result of pressure and swelling in this tunnel, which in turn increases pressure to the median nerve. It is typically not a problem with the median nerve itself.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may increase gradually, and they often extend up into the arm.  These feelings may intensify to the point where it becomes difficult to hold small objects or to make a fist.

Frequent use of keyboards or power tools at work may cause carpal tunnel syndrome or lead to flareups.
Frequent use of keyboards or power tools at work may cause carpal tunnel syndrome or lead to flareups.

Why Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Happen?

Because a combination of factors may be involved, it can be difficult to determine the exact cause of CTS in each case. Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome and sources of flareups include current health conditions, gender, careers, hobbies, and a predisposition to the condition.

Current health conditions

Current health conditions may cause carpal tunnel syndrome or exacerbate symptoms of CTS in those who already have the condition. These include rheumatoid arthritis, pregnancy, thyroid conditions, diabetes, high blood pressure, and prior injuries. Diabetes and other metabolic disorders may directly affect the body’s nerves and make them more susceptible to compression.

Predisposition

Is carpal tunnel syndrome hereditary? It’s a controversial topic and one that requires further research. Historically, it was not believed to be hereditary, but more recent studies show some links. For that reason, some scientists and doctors believe some people may be more genetically predisposed to the condition than others.

Gender

Women are three times more likely to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome than men are. In some cases, this may be due to pregnancy or menopause, which may cause swelling in the wrists.

Career and hobbies

Careers and hobbies are the most notorious culprits. Actions that can increase carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include improper use of computer keyboards, regular use of power tools or hand tools, and repeated use of your wrist, such as playing a violin.

The risk of developing CTS is higher among assembly line workers, such as those in manufacturing, sewing, cleaning, and the restaurant industry. Carpal tunnel syndrome is also common among data entry personnel and others who use computers often.

CTS Treatment

Reducing or modifying certain actions may help alleviate the symptoms, such as taking frequent breaks, stretching out your wrists and fingers, wearing wrist protectors if possible, and investing in ergonomically designed furniture and equipment.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may be present more at night than during the day based on how you sleep. For that reason, Dr. Arora may recommend that CTS patients wear wrist braces at night in order to support the wrist and keep it straight.

Other treatment options include steroid injections, the use of anti-inflammatory medications, and wrist surgery.

If you are experiencing wrist pain due to CTS, make an appointment to see Dr. Arora for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment at a southeast Michigan location near you.

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General Treatments Wrists

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treated?

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How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated? It depends on the extend of the wrist pain, health factors, and more, but treatments can be effective in minimizing CTS symptoms.

Between 3 percent and 6 percent of the adult population has carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), making it undoubtedly the most common nerve disorder today. How carpal tunnel syndrome is treated depends on a variety of factors, such as the intensity of the condition. Fortunately, treatment can be very effective in reducing the pain, numbness, and tingling associated with CTS.

CTS occurs when there is pressure or swelling in the carpal tunnel, which is a space in your wrist where nine tendons and the median nerve pass from the arm into the hand. The condition is usually associated with repetitive use of the wrists, such as regularly using a keyboard or hand tools, but research indicates that it is likely related to a genetic predisposition as well.

How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is Treated

Methods of treating carpal tunnel syndrome or reducing its effects range from self-care to surgical procedures in more serious cases. Following are several common solutions.

Oral Medications

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, known as NSAIDs, may help relieve pain and reduce swelling. Brand names of such medications available over-the-counter or in prescription form include:

  • Advil and Motrin (ibuprofen)
  • Aleve (naproxen sodium)
  • Mobic (meloxicam)

The use of anti-inflammatory medications to treat carpal tunnel syndrome may be especially ideal if the patient has arthritis symptoms as well.

Some doctors may prescribe a short course of oral steroids as well to reduce swelling. Such medications include prednisone or methylprednisone.

Discuss side effects of medication use with Dr. Arora or your primary care physician.

One way to treat carpal tunnel syndrome is through the use of anti-inflammatory medications.
Anti-inflammatory medications may reduce swelling in the carpal tunnel.

Steroid Injections

A more effective way to use steroids to treat carpal tunnel syndrome is to inject it into the carpal tunnel. Doing so may help decrease inflammation and swelling, thereby reducing pressure on the median nerve.

Protect Your Wrists

A key to reducing CTS pain is to keep your wrists relatively straight, which is somewhat possible during the day but not so much at night. For that reason, some doctors may prescribe wrist braces that you can wear while you sleep.

To prevent pain, you should also wear a brace if possible when participating in games and sports that strain your wrists, such as bowling.

If your job requires repetitive use of the wrists – such as in manufacturing, construction, or the auto repair fields – wear protective gear if possible to keep them stable.

Self-Care

Self-care is probably one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent flareups. Take an active role in your CTS treatment plan with the following measures whenever and wherever possible:

  • Use ergonomically designed furniture and computer equipment.
  • Use proper posture when typing.
  • Sleep with your wrists straight, even if you’re not wearing a brace.
  • Take frequent breaks at work or when participating in hobbies.

Gently stretch your arms, flex your wrists, and wiggle your fingers regularly to reduce tension and increase blood flow. Dr. Arora can provide you with more specific at-home exercise tips that may reduce CTS symptoms.

Repetitive use of the wrists can be painful. Ergonomically designed furniture and equipment may help reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.
Repetitive use of the wrists can be painful. Ergonomically designed furniture and equipment may help reduce carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.

Wrist Surgery

In cases where pain is not alleviated with the above treatments, surgeries can be helpful. The two most common surgeries for carpal tunnel syndrome are known as open carpal tunnel release and endoscopic carpal tunnel release, both of which can be handled on an outpatient basis.

  • Open carpal tunnel release surgery: In very simple terms, the surgeon makes a 1-inch incision on the wrist and then divides the carpal ligament to enlarge the carpal tunnel.
  • Endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery: This is an alternate option with a similar goal. The surgeon typically makes two half-inch incisions, one on the wrist and one on the palm. A camera attached to a narrow tube is inserted into one incision, and the camera guides the doctor as he uses instruments to cut the carpal ligament through the other incision.
  • Laser carpal tunnel surgery: People often ask, but sorry to say, there is no such thing!

Get It Checked Out

How carpal tunnel syndrome is treated depends on the effectiveness of prior treatments, the extent of the condition, your ability to follow other remedies, and more. It’s also possible that your wrist pain is not CTS at all, but a different condition altogether.

The first step is to schedule an appointment to see Dr. Arora in West Bloomfield, Howell, Warren, or Macomb for an evaluation of your condition. If it is carpal tunnel syndrome, we will work with you to find a solution you’re comfortable with. Call us for more information.

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Dr. Aroras office from my first call to schedule my appointment was friendly. Walking in the first day, I felt like I was in a nice atmosphere. Dr. Arora was EXCELLENT in taking great care of my hand injury. He was gentle and very understanding to the concerns I had about my hand. His expertise was admirable and I would recommend anyone with an injury to their hand to his office to be under his care. Because of him, I have healed faster than expected and will make an 100% recovery! Thank you Dr.

Jackie S.

I first thought I was going to have to have painful injections or surgery, but Dr. Arora suggested physical therapy may do the trick. I was doubtful, but I agreed to do it. Now, my pain is gone, and with the help of an ergonomic keyboard at work to keep my hands in the correct position, I am virtually pain free. The therapy strengthened my wrists and shoulders, and built more flexibility into my wrists.

Jerry T.

My experience with this doctor was positive from the outset. Dr. Arora was kind and spent a great deal of time with me. Staff was friendly. The office was nice and bright.

Ariel G.

Very friendly and helpful Great staff!!! Doctor Arora was very professional and did great work. I was very happy with everything!

L B.