Carpal Tunnel Injection

If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and experience pain, numbness, or tingling in your hand and wrist, a carpal tunnel injection might be a non-surgical treatment option to consider. This guide explains what a carpal tunnel injection is, its benefits, risks, how to prepare, what to expect, and frequently asked questions.​

 

What Is a Carpal Tunnel Injection?

A carpal tunnel injection is a non-invasive treatment that involves injecting a corticosteroid into the wrist’s carpal tunnel. This narrow passageway houses the median nerve, which becomes compressed in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome. The corticosteroid reduces swelling and inflammation, relieving pressure on the median nerve and reducing symptoms like pain, tingling, and numbness in the hand and fingers.

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Is a Carpal Tunnel Injection Right for Me?

A carpal tunnel injection may be right for you if:

• You have carpal tunnel syndrome.

• Non-surgical treatments like wrist splints, activity modification, or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications have not been effective.

• You’re looking for a non-surgical solution to relieve your symptoms.

• Your daily activities are significantly impacted by hand or wrist pain, tingling, or numbness.

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Benefits of Carpal Tunnel Injection

Here are the primary benefits of carpal tunnel injections:

• Immediate pain relief: Many patients experience relief within minutes-to-days.

• Reduced numbness and tingling: The injection alleviates pressure and irritation on the median nerve, improving hand and wrist function.

• Non-surgical: A minimally invasive procedure, carpal tunnel injections are often recommended before considering surgery.

• Quick recovery: Most patients can resume their normal activities shortly after the procedure.

• In-office treatment: This procedure can be completed quickly in your healthcare provider’s office.

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Risks of Carpal Tunnel Injection

Although carpal tunnel injections are considered safe, like any medical procedure, there are some risks:

• Bleeding: Bleeding is very minor.

• Infection: As with any injection, there’s a small risk of infection.

• Temporary pain: Some patients report increased discomfort at the injection site for a short period.

• Nerve injury: There’s a very low risk of injuring the median nerve.

• Allergic reactions: Allergies to corticosteroids are rare, but possible.

• Steroid side effects: Side effects are uncommon, unless steroids are administered frequently, but may include hot flashes, flushing, insomnia, headaches, skin changes, osteoporosis, elevated blood sugar, immunosuppression, or others.

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How to Prepare for a Carpal Tunnel Injection

Preparing for a carpal tunnel injection is straightforward. Follow these steps for a smooth experience:

• Inform Dr. Gilthorpe of the following:

  • Allergies, or medication sensitivities

  • Active infections, especially near the hand or wrist

  • If you have diabetes, especially if it’s difficult to control

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your wrist.

• Fasting is NOT necessary.

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How Is a Carpal Tunnel Injection Performed?

A carpal tunnel injection is a quick and simple outpatient procedure:

1. Safety-Check: Your vitals will be checked and the procedure site will be confirmed.

2. Positioning: You will be sitting with your wrist resting on the procedure table.

3. Cleaning the area: The wrist is cleaned to minimize infection risks.

4. Injection: A fine needle is used to inject a corticosteroid into the carpal tunnel space to reduce swelling and pressure on the median nerve, this includes a local anesthetic to help with discomfort.

5. Band aid: A band aid will be placed over the site.

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Post-Procedure Care and Restrictions

Following a carpal tunnel injection, you can typically resume most of your normal activities. However, follow these guidelines for optimal recovery:

• Mild soreness: A small amount of soreness is normal.

• Ice the area: If there’s swelling or discomfort, apply ice packs for relief.

• Rest your wrist: For the first 24-48 hours, avoid repetitive wrist movements.

• Monitor for side effects: Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or increased pain at the injection site.

• Follow up: Patients are typically seen for a follow-up visit two-to-eights weeks after an injection

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How long will it last? Do I need more than one?

• Relief can begin within a few minutes, but usually takes a day or two after the numbing medicine wears off. Full effects may take up to two weeks.

• Relief from carpal tunnel injections varies. Some patients experience relief for several months or more, while others may need additional treatments.

• Repeat injections may be necessary, but are usually spaced about 3 months apart to minimize potential side effects.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Carpal Tunnel Injections

Q: Is the injection painful?

A: You may feel some minor discomfort during the injection, but most patients find it tolerable.

Q: Will this injection cure my carpal tunnel syndrome?

A: A carpal tunnel injection can provide significant relief, but it may not be a permanent cure. If symptoms persist, a referral for carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary.

Q: Do I need time off work after the procedure?

A: Most patients can return to work the same day. If your job involves repetitive wrist motions, you can request  a physician’s letter to return to work the next day.

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Summary

A carpal tunnel injection can be an effective, minimally invasive option for relieving the pain and discomfort caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s a simple procedure that can provide months of relief and help you regain function in your hand and wrist.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, [request an appointment here] or call us at 832-286-4546.