Treatment options

If you develop carpal tunnel, see a doctor to avoid permanent damage to the nerves and muscles of the hand and thumb. Trust me, this is a very important step. Treatment options include:
-- Physical therapy to strengthen the wrist and hand; yoga, ultrasound, chiropractic manipulation and acupuncture to reduce symptoms; massage to relieve pain, slow CTS progression and boost grip strength, according to a report by University of Miami School of Medicine researchers published in the Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies.
-- A wrist splint, worn round-the-clock or only at night within three months of symptoms to support and brace the wrist until the nerves and tendons recover.
-- An occasional rest from the repetitive motion to reduce or eliminate mild symptoms.
-- Temporary use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -- aspirin, ibuprofen and other non-prescription pain relievers -- to help control discomfort. In severe cases, it may take a cortisone injection or corticosteroids pill to reduce swelling. Diabetics should be aware long-term corticosteroid use can make controlling insulin levels more difficult.
CTS surgery, one of the most common procedures performed in the United States, is usually reserved for severe cases after other treatments have failed for at least six months.