Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Surgery
Carpal tunnel syndrome is more common than a majority of us are aware of and affects at least 3.1% of the population every year, who are between the ages of 18 & 64. Moreover, data shows that at least 400,000 surgical procedures for carpal tunnel are conducted every year, which is equal to 0.1% of the population living in the United States.
This increased prevalence of the condition also means that more than 2 billion dollars are spent per year as Carpal Tunnel Surgery Costs by patients in order to get their symptoms treated. Moreover, the risk for this condition is also believed to increase as a person age or undergoes an increase in their body mass index.
Surgical Vs. Non-Surgical Approach
The surgical option for the treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome was first introduced in 1924 by an expert known as Galloway and was later promoted by Phalen. Over time, the improvements in the approach have made it highly safe and effective for the complete relief of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
This surgery is known as Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery and may be conducted by various techniques depending on the patient's conditions and doctor's preference. Studies conducted to investigate the safety and effectiveness of Carpal Tunnel Release have found it to not only have high efficacy and safety ratios, but the complication rates associated with them are also very low. While Endoscopically conducted Carpal Tunnel Release only has 3.2% complication rates, Open Carpal Tunnel Release has an even lower percentage of 2.6%.
While Surgical Procedures are considered the definitive treatment option for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it may not be an option for all patients, and some experts believe non-operative management to be used as a first-line Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment. This may include immobilization of the affected area using a Carpal Tunnel Splint or Carpal Tunnel Brace.
The patient may also be recommended physiotherapy and a number of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Exercises, which will help improve their symptoms over time. Carpal Tunnel massage may also be performed by a therapist who uses their thumbs and forefingers to apply deep tissue pressure.
