Restoring Function. Embracing Life.
Carpal Tunnel Specialist in Singapore
Dr Bryan Wang
Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon
Trusted Orthopaedic Surgeon | Fellowship-trained in Canada | With over 20-years of experience
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel—a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligaments. Pressure or compression on the median nerve can lead to a range of symptoms affecting the hand and fingers.
Carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist formed by wrist bones and a ligament (transverse carpal ligament).
While Median nerve: runs through this tunnel, controlling sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, plus some thumb muscles.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can result from various factors, including:
Repetitive hand and wrist movements, particularly during activities like typing or assembly work.
Injury or trauma to the wrist.
Health conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy.
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
Hand and wrist pain that may radiate up the arm.
Weakness or difficulty gripping objects.
Symptoms often worsen at night or after prolonged periods of hand use.
How to Diagnose?
A physical examination by a healthcare provider, often an orthopaedic specialist or a neurologist.
Nerve conduction studies may be conducted to assess the nerve's function and determine the extent of compression.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
What are my Treatment options?
If you have any of the symptoms above, it is advisable to see an orthopaedic specialist for further assessment. The appropriate treatment is decided after assessment and a collaborative discussion based on your needs.
They can be broadly divided into conservative (non-surgical) for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome and surgical options for the severe and persistent carpal tunnel syndrome.
Conservative Treatment
Conservative Treatment: Rest, modification of hand movements and activities, and wearing wrist splints to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs may help manage discomfort.
Corticosteroid Injections: Injecting corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel can provide temporary relief from symptoms.
Physiotherapy: nerve gliding exercises.
Finding Relief and Preventing CTS:
To find relief from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and prevent its onset or recurrence, consider these tips:
Practice ergonomic principles at work and during activities that involve repetitive hand motions.
Take regular breaks to rest and stretch your hands and wrists.
Maintain good hand posture and wrist alignment during typing and other tasks.
Surgical Treatment
For severe or persistent cases, a surgical procedure called carpal tunnel release may be recommended to relieve pressure on the median nerve. This procedure involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve nerve pressure (can be done open or endoscopic).
The prognosis of this condition is generally favourable. The earlier the treatment the better the outcomes. Surgery usually has high success in restoring function and relieving symptoms
