Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Support Group

hi Jacqui how are you doing have you ever thought maybe your pain came from either your neck or sholders and maybe u should see a chiro. I was going to have surgery but insted I found a chiro that know's about carpal tunnel and he's been a blessing in dis. if you would like more info on my doc wright me and let me know.

hi yes you can, i just had surgery in my right hand, now i have to get surgery in my left arm and hand, the nerve damage goes higher, if not corrected in time, it is the funny bone nerve, find a good nerologist, and take that conduction test, you proably need surgery

Yes Jacqui, pain up your arms to your elbow is quite normal with cts. The longer you battle cts, without having injections or surgery, the higher the pain/numbness will go. It is caused because the senoival fluid that lubricates the tendons gets 'gummy' and the tendon can't slide as it usually does which causes it to get strangled at the stickiest point - usually at the base of the palm - causing 'stenosis' which results in numbness and pain. The total cure is surgery - very simple and quick - releasing the sheath around the tendon. The injections only last for a short while to relieve the problem.

It really depends on WHY you have this problem. If it is from continual useage of these tendons such as in rsi, then ultimately surgery is the best answer. But if it has been caused by something transient such as pregnancy, then once the pregnancy is over then the condition will subside by itself - although it does take time. Wishing you all the best. Try all the suggestions your doctor has, but be prepared for surgery as a last resort and know that it will be a complete success! Cheers, Cath

Thanks so much Cath. My CT has not been caused by pregnancy or using my hand in a repetitive manner. GP thinks the CT is a result of my having under-active thyroid. I am now having a burning sensation on my forearm too. Not sure if this is related as well. I have an appointment at a hospital on Monday. I think they will do the conductive test. Here's hoping they can help.
Jacqui

Hi Jacqui~~ Its been a while since you wrote and I'm just wondering whats been happening for you? Is it getting any better?? I certainly hope so for your sake. Best wishes, Cath

Hi Cath :0),
Thanks for the message. I've been meaning to post here again. I had the conduction test - I told the girl who did it that she had her own personal torture chamber!! LOL.

I had no idea what to expect - the test at times was so uncomfortable that it was almost painful!! The test was bizarre!! The Dr told me right there and then that I have severe CT in my right hand and mild in my left. (I didn't even know I had it in my left hand LOL)

I saw my GP today - but she has not heard from the CT Dr Yet(Had test on 2nd Feb.) He told me he is suggesting an operation and in the meanwhile - he has suggested that I get some kind of straps on for my arms.

Unfortunately nothing can be done until my GP hears from the Dr, Goodness knows how long the waiting list will be for the operation.

So that's about all that is going on. I am hoping something will be done soon and it is very painful atm.
Jacqui

Hi Jacqui~~ I didn't realise that you were having a conduction test -- I know what you went through as I had to have one of those done a year or two ago -- it was like pure torture,I agree! The man who was in the doctor's office before me actually screamed and told the doctor to STOP -- you can imagine how I was feeling before going in!! I'm glad that they will operate for you -- it sounds as though you won't get any lasting relief any other way. Did you know that you can have the operations done under a local anesthetic?? I had both palms done under generals, but later had my thumbs and the fingers on my left hand done under locals which is much easier to deal with -- also of course, its interesting to watch!! Hopefully you will be scheduled in the not too distant future and the ops will be done asap! Best wishes, Cath

Oh cath,
I feel so brave now. I didn't scream when I had the conduction test - but my God - did i feel like it!!! haha. The whole thing was so weird and like nothing I've experienced. (And I don't want to experience again!!)
Yes, if when I have the operation, it will be done under local. I could be on a waiting list for ages. I'll post here if and when it happens.
Jacqui x