Carpal Tunnel Treatment in St. Clair Shores, MI
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is squeezed as it passes through a narrow tunnel in the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and weakness in the thumb and first fingers. At Advanced Physical Medicine in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, we confirm it with an in-office nerve test and treat it without surgery whenever we can.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms usually come on slowly and are often worse at night or first thing in the morning:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger
- Waking up with a numb hand and shaking it to “wake it up”
- Pain or burning that can travel up the forearm
- A weaker grip and dropping things
- Trouble with buttons, writing or holding a phone
The little finger is usually not affected. If it is, another nerve may be involved.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Anything that crowds the carpal tunnel or irritates the median nerve can cause it. Common causes and risk factors include:
- Repeated gripping, typing or use of vibrating tools
- Holding the wrist bent for long periods, including while sleeping
- Wrist fractures and arthritis of the wrist
- Diabetes, thyroid disease and rheumatoid arthritis
- Fluid retention during pregnancy
Carpal tunnel can also overlap with a pinched nerve in the neck or with peripheral neuropathy, which is why testing matters. A nerve test shows exactly where the nerve is being pinched, so treatment goes to the right place.
How We Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Dr. Stephen Wilson, MD, is double board-certified in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine and has more than 25 years of experience treating pain. We start with an EMG and nerve conduction study in our office to confirm the diagnosis and see how much the nerve is affected. Treatment may include:
Ultrasound-Guided Injections
An injection of a steroid or herbal anti-inflammatory into the carpal tunnel or the nearby tendon sheath can reduce swelling around the nerve. Ultrasound guidance helps us avoid the nerve and blood vessels. See our interventional procedures.
Splinting and Activity Changes
A wrist splint worn at night keeps the wrist straight and takes pressure off the nerve. We also look at how you work and suggest changes.
MLS Laser Therapy
MLS laser therapy is a non-invasive option that can reduce pain and inflammation in the wrist.
Physical and Hand Therapy
Our physical therapy team uses nerve and tendon gliding exercises, stretching and strengthening to help the hand work better.
Acupuncture
Medical acupuncture, part of our holistic pain relief care, can be added for patients who want a drug-free option.
When to See a Doctor for Carpal Tunnel
See a doctor if numbness or tingling in your hand lasts more than a couple of weeks, wakes you up at night, or makes you drop things. Early care matters: the longer the nerve stays compressed, the harder it can be to recover full feeling and strength.
Constant numbness or wasting of the muscle at the base of the thumb needs prompt attention. If surgery is the right choice, we will tell you and refer you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel
Can carpal tunnel heal without surgery?
Mild to moderate carpal tunnel often improves with splinting, activity changes, injections and therapy. Severe or long-standing cases, especially with muscle weakness, may need a surgical release.
How can I relieve pain from a carpal tunnel flare-up?
Rest the hand, wear a wrist splint at night, avoid gripping and bending the wrist, and take breaks from typing or tool use. If the flare does not settle, an injection can help.
How do I keep carpal tunnel from getting worse?
Keep the wrist straight while you work and sleep, take regular breaks, loosen your grip on tools and the computer mouse, and manage conditions like diabetes. Getting tested early also helps.
When is it too late to fix carpal tunnel?
It is rarely too late to improve symptoms, but very long-standing compression can leave some permanent numbness or weakness. That is why we recommend testing as soon as symptoms persist.
Do you accept insurance?
Advanced Physical Medicine accepts most major insurance plans. Some treatments, such as regenerative injections, may be self-pay, and our staff will go over coverage and costs with you before you start.
Get Help for Carpal Tunnel in St. Clair Shores
Book a visit with Advanced Physical Medicine at 24345 Harper Ave, St. Clair Shores, Michigan, or call us at (586) 563-3300. We will find out what is behind your carpal tunnel and talk you through every option before anything is decided.
