Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition of the hand and wrist that occurs when a major nerve running from the forearm into the hand becomes compressed because of swelling or other factors. Patients with this condition can experience sharp pain, numbness, and tingling in the palm and fingers.
Dr. Jeffrey M. Jacobson offers endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery to help patients in the Westchester, NY, area find relief from this condition. Advanced surgical techniques allow Dr. Jacobson to relieve pressure in your wrist with a minimally invasive procedure that does not require the use of general anesthesia. Dr. Jacobson is an instructor for endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, and has taught the procedure to surgeons at institutions such as Hospital for Special Surgery and NYU Langone. If you have experienced pain, weakness, or numbness in your hand or wrist, we can evaluate your symptoms and customize treatment to meet your needs. Contact our practice today to schedule a consultation.
Causes and Risk Factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand through a small space called the carpal tunnel. This compression can be caused by a number of factors. For many patients, there are no direct causes. Instead, the condition is often caused by a combination of risk factors:
- Anatomy: Those who have smaller carpal tunnels or those who have suffered wrist fractures or dislocations may be more susceptible to developing this condition.
- Fluid retention: Fluid retention can irritate the median nerve by increasing pressure within the carpal tunnel. This is particularly common during pregnancy.
- Gender: Women are more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome, possibly because the carpal tunnel is frequently smaller in women.
- Inflammatory conditions: Conditions that cause inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can add increased pressure on the median nerve and contribute to the condition.
- Nerve conditions: There are many chronic illnesses, such as diabetes, that can increase a patient’s risk of nerve damage and the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
Although many believe carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by computer use or typical work activities, there is no conclusive evidence to support this.
Our Advanced Surgical Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Patients experiencing the early stages of carpal tunnel syndrome can often use non-surgical treatments like wrist splints and medications to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. However, when nonsurgical treatments fail to provide relief, and symptoms persist for an extended period of time, surgery may be the only way to improve the condition. Dr. Jacobson is one of the few specialists in the country to offer endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery under local anesthesia. Patients frequently prefer this minimally invasive surgical method over open carpal tunnel release surgery — which is performed using comparatively larger incisions — because the recovery is quicker, and it results in less scarring.
During endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery, Dr. Jacobson will make a small incision in your wrist and use a tiny camera (endoscope) to view the carpal tunnel. He will then use small instruments to divide the ligament that is pressing down on the carpal tunnel to release the pressure on the median nerve and relieve symptoms.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you have been experiencing pain or tingling sensations in your hand or wrist, you may have carpal tunnel syndrome. We can diagnosis your problem and begin planning treatment during a personal consultation. Contact our practice to schedule an appointment.