Diagnosis and Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Atlanta | Thrive Ortho & Spine

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects millions of Americans, often caused by repetitive hand motions, wrist strain, or underlying medical conditions such as diabetes or arthritis. At Thrive Ortho & Spine, our Atlanta-based orthopedic team specializes in accurately diagnosing and effectively treating wrist and hand pain, helping patients return to their daily activities with lasting relief.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve—running through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel—becomes compressed. This nerve provides sensation and muscle control to parts of the hand, making early detection crucial to prevent permanent damage.

Common symptoms include:

• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the thumb and first three fingers
• Weakness or difficulty gripping objects
• Hand pain that worsens at night or during repetitive use
• Occasional radiating discomfort that travels up the arm

When these symptoms persist, specialized evaluation by an orthopedic physician is recommended to determine the severity of nerve compression and the best course of treatment.

Diagnosis at Thrive Ortho & Spine

Our orthopedic specialists in Atlanta use a combination of physical examination and diagnostic testing to confirm carpal tunnel syndrome. Testing methods may include:

• Nerve conduction studies to measure electrical signals through the wrist
• Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate muscle and nerve health
• Ultrasound or MRI imaging for detailed visualization of the median nerve and wrist structures

This comprehensive approach ensures we identify not only the presence of nerve compression but also any contributing factors such as tendon inflammation or anatomical variations.

Nonsurgical Treatment Options

At Thrive Ortho & Spine, we believe in beginning with conservative treatment whenever possible. Our nonsurgical strategies can include:

• Wrist splinting: To keep the wrist in a neutral position during rest or sleep
• Activity modification: Reducing repetitive strain and improving ergonomic positioning at work
• Anti-inflammatory medications or corticosteroid injections: To reduce swelling and relieve pressure on the nerve
• Physical therapy: Focused on stretching, strengthening, and nerve gliding exercises

Many patients experience significant improvement with these measures within several weeks.

Surgical Treatments When Needed

If symptoms persist despite conservative therapy, minimally invasive surgical intervention may be recommended. Our orthopedic surgeons offer advanced carpal tunnel release procedures designed to relieve nerve pressure with minimal downtime. During surgery, the transverse carpal ligament is gently released, creating more room for the median nerve to pass through the wrist.

Postoperatively, most patients experience relief from numbness and tingling within days to weeks. Rehabilitation is typically straightforward, with gradual return to normal function guided by your orthopedic team.

Why Choose Thrive Ortho & Spine

At Thrive Ortho & Spine, our mission is to restore mobility, function, and quality of life through patient-centered orthopedic care. Our Atlanta specialists combine advanced diagnostic tools with personalized treatment plans to ensure each patient receives the right care for their lifestyle and activity level.

If you are experiencing wrist pain, numbness, or tingling, early evaluation is the key to preventing long-term nerve damage. Schedule your consultation with Thrive Ortho & Spine today and take the first step toward relief from carpal tunnel syndrome.

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