CTS or what - Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Message Board

baker459 · 02-25-2003, 08:44 PM

I posted some questions the other night but didn't get much response, so I was hoping if I posted this again, someone might have time to re-consider my questions. I would really like to get a few opinions. Thanks

I have had been diagnosed with CTS (both hands, started in Nov 2002) and nerve irriation from the neck based on an EMG and nerve conduction test. The MRI came back normal, so I was surprised when the neurologist said there appeared to be some neck involvement.

I have finished 4 weeks of PT, 2 arounds of steriods, and weeks of other prescription anti-inflammatory medications. When I started PT my strength in my left hand was 40 and right hand was 40. After 4 weeks PT, my left hand is 55 and my right hand is 43. I still have constant stinging pain in right hand and forearm pain/weakness. Left hand is better with only occassional tingling but still fair amount of forearm pain and weakness.

I have a few questions:

1. What is a normal hand strength. I was told between 80-100.
2. Is forearm pain (up to elbow) a common symptom with CTS? This has been more painful than the hands for me.
3. For people who have had CTS surgery, do you feel it was really helpful. What are the common problems after surgery.

I appreciate your input.

joannescott · 02-26-2003, 07:57 PM

My husband had CT release surgery this past May. He had constant tingling and his hand and arm were numb and painful right up to the elbow....Mostly at nite. I don't know anything about the hand strength but his progressed very rapidly. The Nuerologist said that his was severe and recommended surgery asap. As of today, he is 95% back to normal strength and he said that he would do it again in a heartbeat. I hope this was helpful to you. Good luck!

Jerri1 · 03-12-2003, 02:14 PM

I dont know about the normal range,but the pain into your elbow is from cts. and as far as the surgery goes I had it done on both hands in 1998 and am worse now than I was before the surgeries!Everyone is different but I wish I'd never done it!!Alls I have to show for it is 3"scars on both wrists and hands!!My symptoms are worse now.But I'd never do it again!I've learned to just live with it.Had to change occupations and everything.Cant do anything that involves the use of hands to much!It takes awhile to even post on here!Good luck.. Jerri

MMT1963 · 05-23-2003, 11:56 PM

I had CTS surgery on tuesday. it went great so far so good. My Pain went up my arm into my shoulder . If I slept with my arm above my head I would wake up and not be able to put it down.... lots of pain and in tears. I had may more symptoms. As far as your other ??? I wish I had answers for you. I will look it up on the internet if I find something I will let you no. Good luck. as far as surgery goes, everyone is different, it's a chance you have to take, And it worked out good for me, so far anyways. I'm glad I had it done.. take care

[This message has been edited by MMT1963 (edited 05-24-2003).]

[This message has been edited by MMT1963 (edited 05-24-2003).]

[This message has been edited by MMT1963 (edited 05-24-2003).]