Symptoms? - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

the_josh · 02-24-2001, 06:44 PM

Hmm. . . I'm not sure excactly if I have CTS. First off, I've been having numbness and pain in my wrists , hands, and sometimes my arms. I get the nerve attacks at night usually, and only after typing alot. It feels alot like my arms are falling asleep, but there's somewhat a bit of pain involved. I've seen a doctor and he diagnosed me as having inflamed nerves. I need to know if it's somehow linked to CTS or if it's just somewhat similar. Of course this was expected to happen to me sooner or later - Although I'm a student, In most of my free time I type html for web pages. I'd appreiciate feedback! Thanks

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-the_josh

cwalker · 02-25-2001, 05:45 AM

You will need to be tested to be sure of the diagnosis. An EMG, nerve conduction tests should show if it is CT or other nerve problem. The numbness with resultant pain can be caused by circulation problems like Thoracic outlet syndrome. Doppler studies will show that if that is the case. Did your doctor order any of those tests?

the_josh · 02-25-2001, 09:00 AM

No, he does tend to jump straight to conclusions. Is there any way to get a test done straight from the hospital?

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-the_josh

cwalker · 02-25-2001, 05:10 PM

What kind of insurance do you have? Can you go to any doctor that you want? Or do you have an HMO and have to use a certain one? If you do have an HMO, then they may not want to order expensive tests. Hopefully, you can find someone who will work with you and obtain an accurate diagnosis. You could always go to a medical supply place and buy wrist splints and see if splinting makes you feel better. Even with a diagnosis of CT, that is the first thing the doctors recommend anyway. I had to wear splints every night and keep my arms and hands positioned on pillows. It helped with the numbness and pain for quite some time. Couldn't hurt. Goodluck with finding a doctor who will try to figure this all out with you. However, try the splints first, then you can tell them you tried to rule out some things on your own. There is a lot of information on the internet on this problem. Patients need to be their own advocates and do their homework. Most doctors I know appreciate an informed patient.
Hope this helps.