LYCOS RETRIEVER 
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Nerves
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As shown, the Carpal Tunnel (pink area) is made up of several bones (white) connected by ligaments. The largest of which is the Transverse Carpal Ligament (blue). These structures form the perimeter of a passage through its center called the carpal tunnel (... called the carpal canal). Through this tunnel run nerves, tendons, blood and other soft tissues. For a variety of reasons some of these soft tissues swell, especially the tendons (red) and the protective sheaths that cover them. Overuse (Repetitive Strain Injury or RSI), injuries such as sprains, friction between the tendons and their protective sheaths, fractures, fluid retention, forceful movements and infection are a few of the more common causes.
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Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure that cuts into the ligament that is pressing on the nerve. Surgery is successful about 85% of the time. After surgery, the damaged nerve must heal for the symptoms to improve. This can take months. In severe cases, the nerve may not be able to fully heal. Certain types of damage (such as muscular atrophy) may not be reversible.
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Carpal tunnel surgery may be performed either with the traditional open surgey or by using a telescope to visualize the nerve and transverse ligament. The surgery which is performed in this manner is called endoscopic surgery. The advantages of endoscopic surgery include: smaller incisions, faster recovery period, faster rehabiliation period and a decreased complication rate. For more information on Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Surgery: ENDOSCOPIC CARPAL TUNNEL RELEASE SURGERY (ECTR).)
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To make a diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, your hand surgeon will need a detailed medical history including any information about prior injuries, plus an understanding of how you use your hands. He or she may ... want to have an x-ray taken to rule out the possibility of a fracture or arthritis. In most cases, an EMG (electromyogram) will be done to check for nerve problems in the hand. After your hand surgeon has accumulated your test results, a diagnosis can be developed.
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The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway of ligament and bones at the base of your hand. It contains nerve and tendons. Sometimes, thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling narrows the tunnel and causes the nerve to be compressed. Symptoms usually start gradually. As they worsen, grasping objects can become difficult.
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Physiotherapy offers several ways to treat and control carpal tunnel syndrome. This procedure should be directed specifically towards the pattern of pain / symptoms and dysfunction assessed by the therapist. As such, it may include a range of modalities ranging from soft tissue massage, conservative stretches and exercises and techniques to directly mobilize the nerve tissue. It can ... include the aforementioned immobilizing braces.
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