Splinting for carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a hand disorder characterized by numbness, and pain at the hand and wrist. The condition arises due to pressure on the Median Nerve. Not all cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome require surgical intervention.  In instances of mild nerve compression Dr. Shoen attempts a nonsurgical treatment regimen.  This regimen includes splinting of the wrist for decreasing lengths of time each month over a three month period.  The wrist is splinted in a few degrees of extension which reduces pressure on the median nerve maximally. Patients are taught to position their hands and wrists when performing tasks at an angle that mimics the posture the splint positions them in. After three months patients should be able to discard theirs splints and be symptom free. Persistence of symptoms may indicate a need for surgical intervention. In that instance the Carpal Tunnel Is released under local anesthesia with sedation.