| Before we talk about treatment, let's start with a discussion about the human body and about your medical condition.
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Your doctor has recommended that you undergo hand surgery to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. But what exactly is carpal tunnel syndrome? |
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The median nerve, which carries sensation to the thumb and first three fingers, passes through a natural passageway in the wrist. |
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This opening - called the carpal tunnel |
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- is formed by arch-shaped wrist bones |
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and a connecting ligament. |
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Various conditions, such as pregnancy, injury, arthritis and changes in the tendons caused by repetitive motion can crowd the already narrow tunnel, putting pressure on the nerve. |
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This added pressure can cause a tingling sensation in the fingers and the thumb and may even lead to numbness, pain and restricted movement. |
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This combination of symptoms is called the carpal tunnel syndrome. |
So make sure that you ask your doctor to carefully explain the reasons behind this recommendation. |
