after cts release - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

tony · 12-17-2000, 09:28 AM

I t has been 6 weeks since i had bilateral cts. Since the surgery i have a lot of pain and stiffness on the pinky side of my hands extending down to my wrist and at times up to my elbow. The pain is a throbbing burning pain. I have stiffness in my fingers. My doctor says i have some arthritis in my hands and part of the pain is a part of the healing process. He told me it could take up to 8 mos. after cts to be pain free and have full dexterity back. H as anyone who had cts experienced the same problems?? If so i would really appreciate a response. Thanks.

cwalker · 12-17-2000, 05:55 PM

Tony, what were your symptoms before surgery? And who did your surgery? neuro or ortho? Of course, the little finger isn't involved in carpal tunnel, so it sounds like you have a new set of problems. It is just my gut feeling based on 25 years as an RN, but if all this is new for you, there is something wrong. I'd get a second opinion, (if you could find someone you trust and who wouldn't feel like they were stepping on the surgeon's toes.) Find an ortho hand specialist, I think they do a good job usually and are easier to talk to than the neuro guys.

tony · 12-18-2000, 10:52 AM

Thanks for your reply. A well respected neurosurgeon did my surgery. Its a different kind of pain and discomfort that i am experiencing now than prior to the cts. I have constant pain throughout my hands and wrist. My fingers swell and the palms of my hands get very red. I havent the strength in my hands now that i had prior to the surgery. I have gone to a neurologist and an mri of my cervical spine shows arthritis with spurs a several of my cervical disks. He feels that could be causing the problems that i am having. I am still contemplating on taking your advice and seeking a hand specialist for another opinion. Thanks for your advice and response. I appreciate it.

cwalker · 12-18-2000, 05:43 PM

Tony, check out the website for RSD, as another post mentioned. This is a definite possibility. Sounds like you are having a terrible time. Good luck with your diagnosis and treatment.

Charlie Weaver · 12-27-2000, 05:37 PM

Tony, I had CTS on both hands in January and March 1997. It takes a good year for your hands to heal, but I agree that it sounds like an entirely different problem. I had my surgery done by an ortho doctor and my scar is only 1 inch long on each wrist/hand area. I went to PT for a good while after wards and every now and again I still try to squeeze a tennis ball when those areas start acting up. Good luck to you,