Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common medical condition that affects the wrist and hand caused by a compressed median nerve in the wrist due to repetitive movement or strain. When surgery is done on the spine, this can affect the carpal tunnel and cause CTS to develop or worsen after the surgery. People who have recently undergone spine surgery are at a greater risk of symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, such as tingling, numbness and pain in the fingers and thumb. In this article, we will explore CTS after spine surgery, discuss the steps needed to prevent it, understand the process of diagnosing it and analyse the available treatments.
Overview
Spine surgery is a common procedure that is carried out to improve mobility, relieve pain and correct spinal deformities resulting from spine damage or degeneration. Despite its many benefits, it can lead to the development or exacerbation of carpal tunnel syndrome. This article will explain the way that spine surgery could trigger CTS and our subsequent strategies to prevent and manage it.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Definition
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve, which runs from the wrist to the forearm and is responsible for feeling in the fingers and thumb, is compressed, resulting in tingling, numbness and pain in the fingers and thumb.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of CTS include tingling, numbness, pain in the wrist and hand, a weakened grip, and difficulty performing tasks that require manual dexterity such as typing and sewing.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Spine Surgery
Cause of CTS After Spine Surgery
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by the compression and inflammation of the median nerve. Post-surgical swelling around the spine can irritate the nerves which travel through the carpal tunnel and trigger the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. This is especially true when patients remain in one position for long periods of time.
Prevention
To prevent CTS after spine surgery, it is important to take the following steps:
1. Wear a brace on your wrist for the first few weeks following surgery.
2. Perform range of motion exercises of the wrist and hand to increase blood flow and to improve flexibility of the fingers and thumb.
3. Rest your wrist and hand whenever possible by keeping them in neutral positions.
4. Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Diagnosis
If you are experiencing the signs and symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, it is important to visit your doctor or orthopedic specialist to receive a proper diagnosis. Common diagnostic tests include a physical examination, x-rays and nerve conduction studies.
Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatments are often the first line of defense for CTS. This includes the use of wrist splints, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), stretching and strengthening exercises, heat and cold therapy, and avoiding activities that place strain on the wrist.
Surgical Treatments
If the symptoms fail to improve after trying non-surgical treatments, a person may need to opt for surgical treatment. Surgery involves cutting the ligament that is pressing on the nerve to relieve the pressure and this is usually done as an outpatient procedure.
People Also Ask
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome after spine surgery?
Carpal tunnel syndrome after spine surgery is caused by the swelling and pressure caused by the surgery that places the median nerve in the wrist under strain.
How can I prevent carpal tunnel syndrome after spine surgery?
To prevent carpal tunnel syndrome after spine surgery, it’s important to wear a brace on your wrist, perform range of motion exercises of the wrist and hand, use a pain reliever, and rest your wrist and hand as much as possible.
Are there any non-surgical treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Yes, there are non-surgical treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, such as the use of wrist splints, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), stretching and strengthening exercises, heat and cold therapy, and avoiding activities that place strain on the wrist.
What should I do if my carpal tunnel symptoms are severe?
If your carpal tunnel symptoms are severe, you should see a doctor or orthopedic specialist for a diagnosis. If the symptoms fail to improve after trying non-surgical treatments, a person may need to opt for surgical treatment.
How long does carpal tunnel syndrome last after surgery?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can last for weeks after surgery, depending on how well the person takes care of their wrist and hand.
Final Words
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be a debilitating and painful condition, but with the right preventative steps and treatments, it is possible to minimize the impact it can have on your life. Understanding the connection between CTS and spine surgery is the first step in managing the condition. Knowing the signs, symptoms, and treatments can help you make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.