I was diagnosed with CTS in both hands. I have my self to blame for this. I have been working on a computer without any regards to ergonomics since 1984 (I’m showing my age). I have had the symptoms for about a month (tingling, decreased sensation, swelling around the base of the palm, stiffness in the morning, etc.). On the positive side, pain has been minimal to almost non-existent and I have complete strength (no muscle atrophy) but I noticed that I’m slowly losing my stamina in my hands. I have seen a hand surgeon. He wants to wait another 2 months to see if the symptoms get worse before I have an EMG done. He prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and splints to be worn at night. He also has me doing exercises (stretching) at home. I have also had my desk at work ergonomically set up to avoid further damage to my hands. I’m trying to find out my odds of avoiding surgery. Does anyone know the percentage of people that are diagnosed with CTS that eventually get the surgery (CT release) performed?

I have carpal tunnel in my dominant right hand. I was in tremendous pain until I heard about vitamin B6. It has worked wonders for me and several friends. At first I took 50mg of B6 alone and felt some relief after about three weeks. Then I read that it works better with Biotin and Riboflavin so I started taking a B50 complex and saw more improvement. I would strongly suggest someone try this before surgery. One word of caution MORE IS NOT BETTER! B6 in large doses (over 200mg a day) can cause nerve damage. Start at 50mg and work up to 100 if necessary but do not go over 200 without consulting a doctor first. Some people think carpal tunnel is caused by a B6 deficiency. Others think it helps because it rids the body of excess fluids. Another theory is that B6 somehow short circuits the nerves ability to transmit pain. People with severe problems may not have any relief. It works best when it is caught early. I am not totally pain free and I still have some bad days but nothing like before. Hope this helps.

Veronica

Hi
Just a thought on that Vitamin B thing. Carpal Tunnel can be a symptom of a thyroid imbalance. Vitamin B also helps thyroid. If Vit. B is helping your carpal tunnel, maybe you should get your thyroid checked.
Active Release THerapy worked for me. Check the chiropractors in your area for one who knows and has taken instruction in ART.
Search Dr. Leahy, Active Release Therapy for more information.
JB- no surgery here.

I explored the thyroid connection because I do have alot of low thyroid symptoms. The tests came out normal and the doctors offered to put me on an anti-depressant. No thank you. I don't know if I trust those tests.

Dr. Leahy works right here in Colorado Springs. I hear he works wonders but is very very very very expensive.

Veronica

VERONICA3N
There is no reason to trust thyroid tests. They don't prove you are at the thyroid level right for you.
Most doctors don't take symptoms into consideration, and that is a must when dealing with any hormone.

Hello,

I have successfully avoided so far. My symptoms are similar to yours. I have tingling and numbness as well as some swelling and stiffness. Some pain but not too much. Most problems when sleeping and computing. Diagnosed with CTS last June. (I was pleased with the diagnosis b/c with other symptoms(many of which have resolved) there was concern about Lupus). Anyway, the history and physical exam tests were all textbook for CTS. I wear splints at night (and some while on the computer) and take Celebrex. However my grip strength has remained strong and symptoms have not worsened. My doc has threatened surgery but has not pushed. I keep thinking things are getting better and every now and then will sleep without the splints -- everytime I wake up throughout the night with numbness. Back to the splints. I'm not thrilled with the idea of having to sleep in them indefinitely but as long as the pain doesn't increase and the grip strength is OK, I hope no surgery.