What are the available treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome different from surgery?

While surgery is a highly effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, it is considered a last resort. There are several non-surgical options, including:

• wearing a splint – Keeping the wrist relatively straight reduces pressure in the carpal tunnel and can reduce symptoms. Though they are often worn at night (during sleep), they can be worn during the day as well or during certain activities when symptoms are worse.

• cortisone injection – This may provide relief more quickly than splinting but should not be performed too often; many doctors recommend limiting this treatment to no more than twice a year.

• treat the underlying condition (if present) – For example, effective treatment of rheumatoid arthritis can reduce wrist arthritis, reduce pressure on the nerves in the wrist and reduce or eliminate symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

These treatments can be offered individually or in combination. Prior to considering surgery for persistent symptoms, additional testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or identify other possible causes of symptoms.