Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Dr. Vagner Explains Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Our double board-certified orthopedic surgeon explains the role the carpal tunnel plays in the function of your hand. He also discusses the effective non-surgical and surgical treatment options he offers at his technologically advanced Austin, TX, practice.
Dr. Vagner explains the role the carpal tunnel plays in the function of your hand.
Experiencing Wrist, Hand, or Finger Discomfort? Talk to Dr. Gregg Vagner About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a highly treatable condition caused by a pinched median nerve in the wrist. According to the American Medical Association (AMA), up to 10 million Americans suffer from this common nerve disorder.
A consultation with Dr. Vagner can provide you with a comprehensive evaluation of your hands and wrists. Then our skilled doctor can create your personalized carpal tunnel treatment plan, which includes monitoring and follow-up treatment.
You use your hands every day for work, driving, household chores, and recreation. Don't let carpal tunnel syndrome make these daily activities painful. Use our online form or call our Austin-area practice to request your carpal tunnel consultation today. Dr. Vagner has three locations in the Austin area and one in Cedar Park, TX.
(512) 454-4561
High Praise for Dr. Vagner's Skill and Treatments
"Dr Vagner was recommended by my personal physician who is rated one of the Top Doctors in Austin. I needed immediate surgery on both hands for severe carpal tunnel and Dr Vagner's office accommodated my scheduling needs with a next day appointment. Within a week of first visiting Dr Vagner I had the surgery with only minor discomfort over a 24 hour period. Within 9 days, the stitches were out and I have seen improvement from the nerve damage. I am hopeful that within 6 to 9 months my full feeling will be restored. His staff was always friendly. He was either early for my appointment or right on time." Mark R.
More About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel encases bones, tendons, and the median nerve, which gives sensation to your palm, thumb, and fingers. Discomfort occurs when the median nerve becomes pinched or squeezed inside the carpal tunnel. This can be caused by:
Deformed wrist bones caused by arthritis
Wrist fracture/dislocation
Tendon overuse due to repeated finger movements
An inherited narrow carpal tunnel
Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy or menopause
A reduction in carpal tunnel size caused by rheumatoid arthritis. The swelling of tendons by rheumatoid arthritis can create pressure on the median nerve.
Diseases such as thyroid imbalance and diabetes that can cause nerve damage
Gender, as women tend to have smaller carpal tunnels than men.
Your Daily Activities Can
Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Overuse is one of the most common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome. Therefore, take occasional breaks when performing these activities:
- Typing, writing by hand, or grasping a computer mouse (Dr. Vagner can show you proper wrist positioning to ease symptoms)
- Prolonged vibrations from power or hand tools
- Playing piano for long periods of time
- Any activity that requires repeated movement and overextension of the wrist
Is Treatment Really Necessary?
Absolutely. Patients who notice these symptoms are encouraged to contact our practice serving Austin and Cedar Park, TX, right away. Untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can cause muscle atrophy and permanent nerve damage, leaving you unable to safely drive or perform normal household or work tasks. Get relief and stop carpal tunnel syndrome progression.
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Get the Treatment You Need
Improve Your Quality of Life
Dr. Vagner can accurately diagnose and effectively treat your carpal tunnel syndrome. He can provide you with treatment options that range from conservative to surgical to alleviate your discomfort and restore your ability to use your hands. Our doctor will make recommendations based on your condition and lifestyle. We encourage you to reach out to Dr. Vagner by calling (512) 454-4561 or requesting a consultation at one of our Austin area practices.
"He is an amazing surgeon and a wonderful human being. I would like to also mention that all the members of The Practice are very professional, courteous and helpful. I would highly recommend Dr Vagner!" W S., 2016
Non-Surgical Carpal Tunnel Treatment Options
Following your diagnosis, Dr. Vagner will determine the most effective course of treatment. Typically, he will begin with conservative non-surgical methods to reduce swelling, inflammation, and discomfort:
Anti-inflammatories
Dr. Vagner may first recommend over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as Advil® or Aleve®.
Wrist Bracing
A wrist brace, also known as a splint, can be worn overnight to keep your wrist in a neutral, non-painful position. This keeps pressure off the median nerve, letting it heal.
Cortisone
Cortisone injected directly into your carpal tunnel can decrease swelling of the enclosed tendons, reducing pressure on the median nerve. This treatment may need repeating every few months.
Carpal Tunnel Surgery Recovery
Dr. Vagner will talk with you in detail about your recovery before your surgery, but here is some general recovery information:
You may have some temporary discomfort and inflammation, which can be managed with prescription medications and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Raise your hand above your heart and move your fingers immediately following your carpal tunnel release procedure. This helps reduce swelling and prevents stiffness.
Normal grip and pinch strength are typically regained about two to three months after surgery. In severe cases, this could take up to one year to fully return.
You may need to wear a wrist brace or splint for several weeks, but you can still use your hand for light lifting, driving, and self-care. You might need to take time off of work or switch to lighter job duties while you are recovering.
If you had open carpal tunnel surgery, you will need to wear dressings over the incision for two days. Then, you should only need an adhesive bandage. In about 10 days, Dr. Vagner will remove your stitches. Avoid heavy lifting for two weeks.
Worried About Carpal Tunnel
Treatment Costs?
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Don't be. Dr. Vagner accepts many insurance plans and offers convenient payment plans to make out-of-pocket costs more manageable. He wants all his patients in Austin and beyond to get the treatment they need, regardless of budgetary concerns.
Try These Hand and Arm Stretches
Join Our Family of
Happy, Healthy Patients
Throughout the Austin Area
"Dr. Vagner is awesome - great bedside manner, he makes great eye contact, smiles, is nice, and he is also a great surgeon. I would recommend going to see D.r Vagner for hand/wrist problems. I went to see another Orthopedic MD and didn't have a good experience at all compared to Dr. Vagner." Ashley H.
