Carpal tunnel syndrome: I bought a splint but I still feel the numbness?!
Question: I just went to my doctor yesterday, and she told me that the pain and numbness I've been feeling in my left wrist and fingers might be carpal tunnel syndrome. She told me in the meantime (she's making me an appointment to see an orthopedist) to get a splint. I bought one today and I've been wearing it (it fits and I am wearing it correctly), but I still feel the pain and numbness in my wrist and fingers.
Answers: I just went to my doctor yesterday, and she told me that the pain and numbness I've been feeling in my left wrist and fingers might be carpal tunnel syndrome. She told me in the meantime (she's making me an appointment to see an orthopedist) to get a splint. I bought one today and I've been wearing it (it fits and I am wearing it correctly), but I still feel the pain and numbness in my wrist and fingers.
The correct position of the wrist in the splint should be neutral. You should be able to place a straight object (like a pencil or popsicle stick) on the back of the arm crossing the wrist and it should lie perfectly flat. This opens the carpal tunnel as much as it can. If the splint is bending the wrist, try bending the metal stay to put the wrist in the right position. If it is truly in the correct position, you can try elevating your elbow and hand above heart level. You can also try an ice pack at the wrist to pull the swelling and inflammation out of the area to relieve the pressure to the median nerve. Avoid heat. Try a light massage to the fingers and wrist area. Hope you get relief. I assume your doctor put you on antiinflammatories? Sometimes this can give you some relief.
that is because you are only trying to cover up the problem it still exists, usually carpal tunnel does not go away until surgery is performed.
Yes that will happen. The pain isn't going to instantly go away. Did the doc tell you to take over the counter pain meds or Ibuprofen until then? Ibuprofen is a anti-inflammatory medication which might help. I have to wear a brace also. I refuse to have surgery. I wish you good luck.
You have damaged the nerves inside of your wrist and you will feel it for quite a while. I worked with women who eventually went to get the surgery. I had to take cortizone shots through workman's comp, but stopped since it wasnt helping at all.
Are you left handed? A lot of CTS is being caused by computer keyboards and mouse pointers; you don't have to use any normal force to type or use a mouse, the nerves become irritated and the muscles are static.
I don't know how bad it has become, but many people improve things by drumming onto the table as though they are using an old-fashioned typewriter. You could also switch to an old typewriter, but it has no internet!