• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Belinda | 11/06/2007 09:22:00

Thnaks for coming by. Please feel free to blog you opinions Belinda

Angelika West | 11/06/2007 10:45:00

Hi, I have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel some 4 years ago. The first sympton was my right hand 'going to sleep' at night and I kept waking up with very painful pins and needles and finding it hard to get the blood flowing through my hand again... I since have received 4 injections into the wrist, which appears to stop this happening for about 8 months and then gradually, the same symptoms re-appear. I understand that the only real cure for this is an operation, where the tunnel is cut and reshaped to provide more space for the blood to pass through to the hand... I am very busy in my job and need my hand to work on the computer and have so far not had the chance to take out 4 or more weeks for the healing of the wrist after such an operation....more comments would be welcome...

george murray | 11/06/2007 10:52:00

1. numbness and tingling in my thumb and fingers of my right hand 2.by having very painfull needle reaction comparison tests on both hands and lowerarms. 3.it was uncomfortable to hold the steering wheel of my car or hold a telephone to my right ear. 4. i had surgery 5. i am not really qualified to answer this question although i believe tests to determine whether one has cts or not have moved out of the dark ages.if not then they should. my operation was about 9 years ago and i believe the problem may be returning. 6. yes

Richard Parker | 11/06/2007 11:03:00

I started feeling the effects of tingling fingers in my right hand and the eventual loss of ability to grip anything effectively afrer a while. I wouls also awakw with a cramp feeling in my hand. My doctor recognised the symptoms immediately and eventually a nerve conduction test was done which confirmed the diagnosis. Surprisingly the nerve test was done on my left hand and although I was not feeling any symptoms of CT I was told that my left hand was affected and that it would deteriorate in the short term...and it did within 6 months my left hand was experiencing the full effect of CTS. It did not have a great impact on my social or professional life really. I suppose with similar conditions you just learn to mange it; when the symptoms present themselves you just shake the hands out, wait a while and resume "business as usual" I was presented the options of having the surgical proceedure or having the wrists injected. I was told that even if i had the injections it was a short term solution so the surgery would be the better option. whilst the surgery to my right hand was successful i developed a "trigger finger" in my right thump which is basically the join locking. This was more inconvenient than the CTS. It was injected at the time when I had the surgery for the left hand.I eventually has to have surgery to the thumb. It has since been fine and so has my left hand. The only thing I am left with is a bit of sensitivity in the would site if both hand but otherwise I must say the problems have been resolved. Advice to health care professionals? I must say that I was pleased with the speed of appointments I recieved. I had the operations under "local" - I am not one to hang about after surgery!! The atmosphere in surgery was excellent among the surgical team and great care was taken to minimise the scaring e.g. cutting along the natural lines of the hands. I say three jobs well done - two carpul tunnel proceedures and one trigger thumb release.

Maria Matthews | 11/06/2007 11:24:00

I was diagnosed about 10 years ago with CTS in my right had - I had the nerve test to confirm it and had also had the injection in my wrist. In late 2000 I had a severe stroke affecting my right side so I could only use my left hand. Sure enought the symtoms of painful pins and needles and numbness soon started in my left hand making it impossible to use the telephone. I was operated on in 2001 which made the condition much better. I echo the sentiments of Richard with regard to the surgery. I now have severe pain in my left hand mainly in my ring and third finger but I think that this is unrelated.

Andrew Hicks | 11/06/2007 11:31:00

I suffered with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for over 10 years. I had no idea what it was, until I read an article in a Sunday newspaper, describing the same symptoms that I had. I went to my G.P. who quickly made an appointment to se a consultant surgeon. Because CTS was not classed as an emergency proceedure I had to wait for a few years, until I could be "fitted in". I waited, and waited until eventually a slot was found and I had my right hand operated on. I still had severe pain and discomfort in my left. I had to wait a further year until my left hand was done. Even though both my hands have now been operated on, the consultant advised me that CTS can return, and that I have to be aware of this. Whilst I am now free of CTS, there has been a down side to my operation, my middle finger on my left hand is still numb from the operation, which I had 16 months ago, and could not return to normal. It's a waiting game alright.



Peter E D Coates | 11/06/2007 11:41:00

Three or four years ago I developed what my medical friends called 'trigger fingers'. It pricipally affected my ring and little fingers on both hands, and the symptons came, stayed for a while and sometimes disappeared as quickly as they developed. Then they persisted, to the extent that the problem began to make typing rather uncomfortable, so I consulted my GP. She suggested that I should make an appointment at the local hospital with a consultant who specialised in hand problems, and after the inevitable wait which attends all National Health Service referrals in Britain, I was seen by the Orthopaedics and Trauma team. I was told that a simple operation was needed, and fortunately for me there was a window of opportunity on the surgeon's list only two or three days later. However, when details were being taken, I had to disclose that I was taking Warfarin, an anticoagulant drug which as a consequence of two deep vein thromboses in my right leg during the previous several years had been prescribed indefinitely. For this reason, the almost immediate operation was ruled out, and I was told that I should be contacted again when the operation could be scheduled and steps could be taken to substitute a different medication for the Warfarin, which would lessen the risk of serious bleeding during the operation. Before I was advised about a date for the deferred operarion, my trigger fingers ceased to be a problem, and my hands have been normal ever since. I was able to inform the hospital that I should not be requiring their services after all, unless the symptoms recurred, and they have not done so to date. I am 78 years old. Whether or not my problems resulted from carpel tunnel syndrome, I cannot be certain, but the condition must have been related to some form of trapped nerves in the hands or wrists.

amanda | 11/06/2007 11:45:00

i got carpel tunnel both times i fell pregnant . they r not severe they niggle a bit now but i was told it was just due to pregnancy i had it .

keith rogers | 11/06/2007 12:51:00

I had CTS confirmed in both hands about ten years ago. i had them operated on succesfully, although i did get a recurance in my right hand which was dealt with by injections. what they dont warn you about is that you may lose strength in your grip or in finger to thumb pressure after the operation.I retained about 80% strength in my thumb pressure, the significance of this did not become apparant until I became an insulin dependant diabetic. I find I now have real difficulty using the syringes with my reduced thumb strength.

Espichi | 11/06/2007 13:08:00

I was a ladies Hairstylist for many years,Then my husband and I went into boarding kennels, where I found the scrubbing down of the knnel walls, becoming a real chore, the poains in my wrists and fingers just got worse and worse, it started off, like a throbbing tightening in the wrists and down into the dfingers,and such pain used to make me feel sick, almost vomit with it........it was really getting to me, I was becoming tense, irritable and started dropping things...........so I finally went to the Dr's and he said it was carpal tunnel syndrome probably through the years of hairdresssng, then the kennel work although I loved the animals was just the final straw, I could find no resting place, so was admitted into hospital the ' Stoke Manderville' where I had the operation on both wrists.........this was way back in 1992, and although it defiantely helped ease the pain, my wrists even today play up and I have to wear a brace to help me.......now at going on for 74 years I doubt if they would operate again......so I just have to wear the braces, and rest the hands and wrist when I can......

BRIAN PHILLIPS | 11/06/2007 13:10:00

Had an operation on the left carpal tunnel, this was not sucessful stil suffer in both hands with pins and needles and with hands both going to sleep (lack of circulation)

heaven | 11/06/2007 13:30:00

I too have been diagnosed with CTS which affects my left hand/arm. Originally due to a car accident where I injured my left shoulder,arm and neck, it is very painful, with constand pins and needles, I am prone to dropping many things and I am left handed. I am currently waiting for repeated Nerve Conduction studies to determine whether they can operate or whether I "Just have to live with it" which in this day and age is pathetic. My shoulder and neck will never be right and have been told to learn to write with my right hand. All well and good but I cannot play a guitar the other weay round very easily.

Sue M | 11/06/2007 13:43:00

I had CTS in both hands during pregnancy. In the left hand it went away after pregnancy but I was left with it in my right hand. I was not in pain with it, but had the usual deadening of the hand and lots of tingling, resulting in me hanging it over the side of the bed lots! In the end, I had the operation and would recommend it, definitely. It took a good 8 weeks to feel anything like normal afterwards, but now I don't suffer at all and the scar is hardly noticable - about 3 cm long on my hand (I had heard all sorts of rumours of long scars all up your arm!). The operation was done under local anaesthetic and that was the worst thing - I would ask to be put out next time! I didn't even need pain killers after the first 24 hrs. Go on, get it done! I had it done on the NHS at Addenbrookes hospital, Cambridge and the surgeon and the team there were fantastic!


GKilpatrick | 11/06/2007 14:02:00

It seemed to come on overnight, very sudden sharp pain but was diagnosed also very quickly - thankfully! Had to be off work for a short while and wear a terribly attractive brown splint, but it was cured relatively fast. Hoping that I am cured, as it really wasn't at all pleasant. I'm now very careful when spending any length of time at my PC!! I had excellent information and assistance from my GP. Regards GK

christianne dobson | 11/06/2007 14:16:00

I had surgery on my right hand 7 years ago after developing CTS whilst pregnant I am having surgery on my left in July. My right hand still experiences CTS so the surgery is not a cure and i am sure the numbness is connected to my neck and upper spine which i have arthritis in.

Jean Halkett | 11/06/2007 15:21:00

I was first diagnosed 6 months after i had my right leg amputated after bone cancer and i had to put a lot of pressure on my wrists with having to use crutches all the time this was in 2002. Firstly like most i had pins and needles, then using the phone was very uncomfortable, sleeping also was bad as it was painfull when i woke up all numb on my right arm and wrist. I had all the test and they confirmed CTS in both wrists. So in Feb 2003 i had my right one done and although they said it would be a while to recover it took a lot longer and they wanted to operate on the other one within 6 months i just couldnt. So i cancelled the op. 2years later i had the other one done. I must admit that both ops went very well and certainly relieved a lot of the pressure and pain, now and then i get a pulling feeling in my palms but other than that i would advise anybody needing this op to go ahead.It was very difficult for me in my situation dealing with an amputation and then 2 ops but i got through it and i now watercolor paint and im always on the PC so you see it is worth it, Good Luck to everyone.

Jayne Pickard | 11/06/2007 15:46:00

I have had problems with my left arm going "dead" and floppy for years now and my neurosurgeon (I have several discs out in my back and neck)did nerve conductions tests which showed slight CTS in both hands.I had had no pain, it did not effect my day to day life except for this deadening of the arm at night and the occasional wrist pain where I had to wear a Tubigrip for a few days. In June last year I had surgery at Leeds General Infirmary on my left hand, under local anaesthetic (a weird experience in itself) ever since, I have to admit, the night problem has gone. I'm supposed to be having the right hand done but it never has caused any problems and so I'm reluctant to go through that local anaesthetic gain, which believe me is pretty damned nasty! I would recommend the surgery to anyone in dire need, but it isn't pleasant and soory according to my surgeon it is all done under that these days no knocking out!

Edith | 11/06/2007 16:49:00

I had an operation several years ago and I still have problem with pins and needles and the hand going to sleep. The surgeon wanted to operate on both my hands but I am glad that I decided to have one done at a time. I will not be having the second operation. I have degerative discs and arthritis in my neck and I have often wondered if this is the cause of my problems.

Ford | 11/06/2007 16:50:00

I was 30 and had my first baby when I first experienced symptoms of carpul tunnel. I worked in a surgical theatre and kept dropping instruments; as a result Ihad t change jobs. I was diagnosed through the symptoms I was exhibiting. I wore stapping for a few months then eventually had the carpul tunnel release operation. My general conclusion is that the condition is really debillitating.

Patricia Olivant | 11/06/2007 16:54:00

Have been suffering for quite a number of years now and think it will be with me forever after having both wrists operated on 3 times each and still it has returned.I feel it is something I will have to contend with even though the quality of "life" regarding thing has been severly disrupted as I cannot do any type of work that involves much usa of my hands.Night times are getting worse once again the lack of a good nights sleep is wearing me down I would be very grayeful to anyone that has some solutions that are of help.



Richie Stevens | 11/06/2007 17:09:00

I have read with interest these varying experiences and one thing comes to mind is what I was told by my surgeon; that we are all different physiologically. We should not expect the same outcomes to proceedures as the other person. That is the reality i am afraid. I have had both hands operated on for CTS, both under local aesthetics. The worst part was the injections (does anyone disagree) but beyond that the operations were fine. The usual 4 weeks off work and 8 weeks or so to get back into the groove of full usage. I would urge anyone to have the operation if it is available; but keep in mind it may work effectively or it may not, but you will not know unless you give yourself the chance. That's the human body for you!

dalia vainorius | 11/06/2007 17:42:00

I was diagnosed some years ago. My symtoms were numbness, pain and tingling mostly at night, bad enough to disturb sleep. I had a superb GP who knew exactly what it was and sent me for follow up tests which confirmed the diagnosis. I opted for surgery straight away and I've never looked back since. unfortunately I think it's starting in the other had but I wouldn't hesitate to have surgery again.

Daphne Rowbotham | 11/06/2007 17:52:00

I first had CT during my first pregnancy in 1979. It was extremely debilitating, towards then end of the pregnancy i was even unable to hold a fork to feed myself, or a pen to write. It was in both hands, and I got very depressed wondering how I could possibly care for a baby like this. Baby arrived, symptoms went! I was free of pain for the next 20 years, and then the symptoms retutned in both hands, very severely in the left. 3 years ago I had the operation, the relief was amazing. I still get some symtoms in both hands from time to time, and it does seem to be getting worse again in the left hand, but nothing like as bad as it was pre op.

Fay D | 11/06/2007 17:53:00

In 1983/4 when I was preganat with my 23 year son I got up one morning with my left wrist hurting. Because I was pregnant it had to wait until son was born it was I was told RSI or Capol syn.23 years latter tip of middle finger amputated against mine & my consutants advice, then got gangrene as I have Raynauds Decease.Allergic to anascetic and get gangrene if I get a cut, so no operations for me. I have a wrist brace which holds my thumb in place otherwise it would set firmly under my hand. Have pins and needles, my finger go numb and white and there is nothing they can give me. Because of spinal damage and osteo/rhuematoid arthritis and osetoparoisis I am on patches that release a small dose of morphine every hour for my spine as I was in constant pain, the side affect of that is that the pain in my wrist is now not as bad as it was.

dylanjess | 11/06/2007 18:56:00

I wake up with pain and tingling in my rt hand, holding newspaper, book etc painful, attended cts clinic, refered for physio no grerat change 6 month on. Now awaiting course of acupuncture. my problem I feel convinced stems from back injuries falling against my shoulderblade several times. My physio says it is a follow on from having charcot marie tooth disease a neuro muscular disorder I had from infancy.I have had two courses from my gp of acupuncture and each time the symptoms have dissapeared a week ot two after finishing.

Fay D | 11/06/2007 18:59:00

I have had it since 1984, do not have the use of my left hand,wear wrist brace with thumb attachment to stop thumb going under my hand due to the nerves pulling my thumb under. Can't have operation have I have Raynauds even a cut can turn gangrenous can't be anesitised as I am allergic to it any way. But having spinal damage and having patches for the back pain which releases a small dose of morphine every hour does have a knock on effect and helps the pain in my wrist, does not stop the pins and needles or numbness. There is a ey simple operation to cure it for 99% who does have it, the other 1% like me who cannot have an operation has to lump it.

Debsf | 11/06/2007 19:47:00

I started to have problems with severe pins an d needles in my right hand at night just over a year and a half ago. Within a short space of time I started to lose my ability to grip. A visit to a consultant confirmed carpal tunnel and I was given an injection which worked for about 6 months. A second visit and a second injection, this time the injection only lasted a short while before I started to feel as though my hand was being placed in a pan of boiling water all the time. I had an operation for the CTS in November last year, under local anaesthetic (never thought I'd be brave enough for that...) in the hospital that I work at has brought me total relief. i was off work for a total of 8 weeks but only because my job as a medical records officer is quite physical and the consultant didn't want me to do any physical work until he was happy that the hand was perfectly recovered. I would recommend the operation to anyone who is suffering.


teresa | 11/06/2007 20:09:00

i have tingleing in both my hands and arms, but the nureosurgeon said it is just due to a trapped nerve in my neck, i have been siffering now for 9 wks. I am not able to work as my job is driving buses all day. i am not to sure what to do now, does anybody out there have any ideas.

louise | 11/06/2007 20:10:00

I developed carpel tunnel syndrome when I was pregnant, and was told it would probably go away after delivery, it didn't. I have had both hands operated on at seperate times. My left hand has now been fine for 5 years my right hand was good for about four years and is now returning. The surgery is not nice, expecially with local anaestetic, feels like 100 bee stings when going in and can be very painful for the first few days after. I would however recommend that you try surgery as it has cured one hand completely (for the time being) and they other was fine for four years

Deirdre Cox | 11/06/2007 20:27:00

I first found out I had Carpal Tunnel Syndrome when I got a tingling in my fingers and they started to feel cold. Isaw the dr and he diagnosed Carpal Tunel syndrome. i was referred to the hospital and they gave me a steroid injection which didn't work so 6 months later I had an operation to realease it. This seems to have worked but as other members of my family had the same ting we are now wondering if it is hereditary. My operation worked but when my father had his done it was a failure and his carpal tunnel syndrome in both hands was worse that it was before

Annie | 11/06/2007 21:03:00

I've had cts for 7yrs now my gp diagnosed it very quickly and I've had all the tests and injections but nothing seems to really help. The consultant at the hospital offered me an op but told me it could go either way as there are no guarantees so being a single parent I could not afford to take time off work and just plod on as best I can. Like most people with this I have good and bad days but I agree with the comments that the painful sleepless nights are the worst. I wear a splint to help during the day and sometimes all night just to get some relief but unfortunately like most things this does not always work so I have to limit myself on the pc and a couple of other hobbies I have . I am at the moment due to start college so that I can train for a job that does not mean I am using my hands as much and hopefully this will help . My sympathies and best wishes to all of you with this quite debilitating syndrome which I feel is not understood by anyone other rhan another sufferer.

judith | 11/06/2007 22:10:00

my doctor told me i had cts about 6 year ago, ihad pain in my right thumb and first finger he said they could operate on it but because i am anxious and frightened of going into hospital i put off, now i dont seem to have much strength in either wrist and i just thought this was wear and tear but seeing what others have said makes me wonder if its the cts

Anne Godwin | 11/06/2007 23:00:00

I first had problems a couple of years ago when I would wake up with my hands fixed in a claw-like position. My GP quickly got me to see a physio who gave me splints to wear at night. The effect was almost immediate and within weeks I had stopped having any symptoms. A few months later I stopped wearing the splints and didn't have any further problems. I do still get occasional problems and can sometimes reduce the symptom by easing up on a particular activity -usually typing or sewing. If this doesn't work then I resort to the splints. Unfortunately they are rather hot in the warm weather. I also find practising the 'lotus flower' from my yoga class helps and try and do this before I go to sleep when I am aware I have been over doing certain activities. I have managed to avoid surgery as the splints worked so well. I have MS also so in the scheme of things, this is a minor worry. Things, as they say, could be worse.

Anne | 12/06/2007 05:57:00

I first noticed symtoms of pins and needles in my hands about ten years ago - this then progressed on to 'dead' hands during the night (very often waking me up). I found it difficult to hold a book up or drive on long car journeys. I tried to ignore the irritation of the pins and needles , and I suppose the final straw came when I was dropping things and not being able to hold a small needle between my finger and thumb. I sought advice from my doctor who referred me to the hospital. As the waiting list was long, I decided to go privately. I had the diagnosis confirmed after the nerve conduction test, where they told me that I had some muscle wastage in my thumbs and would require the surgery in both hands. I had the operation about 7 years ago on the right hand and was told that I had some peculiarity of the muscle growing across the hand, therefore another small cut had to be made. Consequently I believe the healing process took slightly longer than I had anticipated. I felt really frustrated at not being able to do very much for a few weeks, but now I am pleased to say that at the moment I am free from any pain or pins and needles. I never did have the other hand done, but don't really feel that I want to, the symptoms or pain seem to have disappeared. I have often wondered if the occasional neck pain that I suffer with had any connection to CTS. When I visited a McTimoney Chiropractor she suggested that my spine was quite 'out of line' and she wished she had met me before I had the CTS operation. I do go for treatments now and again and have often wondered if this helped with the left hand!


Margaret Anderson | 12/06/2007 06:19:00

Have sufferred for about 10 years now. Had the first injections about 3 yrs ago and the relief was instant the symtoms started to come back after I had totally unrelated surgery 2 yrs ago. I had injections again last September again total relief but had major surgery again in Feb this year and since them I have been in agony. Not only does the pain make it difficult for me to fall asleep it wakes me about every hour through the night. I think all the drips, lines etc through the period of hospitalisation must have started it all off again. Just wish I could sleep though as having come out of this surgery with mrsa I need rest to fully recover.

judy | 12/06/2007 06:35:00

I found the pain,numbness and pins and needles was really bad especially at nocte. But it then started affecting me every minute of the day as well. I was put on endone to try to control the pain but it didnt work. I was told that I needed the operation but refused until the day I dropped my beatuiful grandson.Iam a nurse and started to drop things at work as well. I have since had the surgery as well as having a plate and 8 screws inserted into my wrist. I will never get over dropping my grandson.

Elizabeth Bentley | 12/06/2007 09:31:00

I was diagnosed in1997 with CTS in my right had. I went to see the doctor about another complaint and he shook my right hand and he noticed that I was pulling away. The pins and needles and come on slowly and I had not noticed it. Also the fingers were curving in.Also there was not grip there. He sorted out a support and had several tests but then I had the opperation and it worked but now I am feeling some tingles and I am losing grip again. I found sleeping with a wrist brace helped.

Shelak | 12/06/2007 10:14:00

I suffered with CTS for many years before I realized what it was. I was kept awake at night and most nights walked the bedroom floor because of the pain. I then found it was affecting my driving - I could not grip the driving wheel properly. I could not grip a pen very well or the hairdryer when drying my hair. It was affecting every aspect of my life. I finally went to my GP who diagnosed the condition and after various tests I had both wrists operated on within 3 months of each other. I should have had this operation a lot earlier as my wrists are still weak and I do occasionally get pains in my right writst. I have worked in administration all my working life - firstly using a typewrite and then a computer. I do think more emphasis should be put on this condition especially now more and more people are using a computer.

Shelley | 12/06/2007 10:30:00

I was diagnosed with carpul tunnel syndrome in both hands 3 years ago, I am also a diabetic and had to undergo the operation whilst being awake under a local anesthetic They did both hands at the same time. The operation was not a success and i still suffer with the pain and numbness and tingling in both hands and wrists. Although I had the electrode nerve test on my hands and lower arms they didn't see the point in doping the nerve test on my neck even though the drs knew about my cervical spondolosis. Seeing as the operation hadn't relieved any of my symptoms I went back to see the drs and I was then told the problem is coming from trapped nerves in my neck of which is inoperable and so there is nothing that can be done except brain surgerey which is too risky with the complications involved. So again I have to learn to live with it. Just like my Ostoearthritis of my neck, lower spine hipes etc... The wrist braces help relieve the tingles but then that causes stiffness with the arthritic wrists, So I take tramadol when pain is too severe to cope with. I still have no grip to speak of and drop things regularly. I no longer worry about matching dinner services anymore!

Sue | 12/06/2007 10:32:00

1. Pins & needles in the thumb & first 3 fingers in y right hand plus difficulty lifting a kettle full of water etc. I used to wake up in the night with a "dead" arm and have to walk around dangling my arm to restore the circulation. 2. My GP first diagnosed the condition about 12 years ago when I was about 42, but I changed my job and gradually the symptoms subsided. However, they started up again about 2 years ago. 3. I found it difficult to get a unbroken night's sleep, driving more than a few miles brought on the pins & needles, and using a keyboard was painful. 4. I had an operation about 18 months ago, and was back at work after 10 days. The improvement was immediate, although for the following 6 months my wrist ached from time to time. I guess this was just everything settling down. I now wear a magnetic bracelet and have no symptons. However, I have recently noticed the tell tale symptoms my left hand although not currently very severe, and I'm hoping they will disappear as happened with my other hand so I don't have to have a further operation. 5. I don't feel qualified to offer advice on effective treatment

karen | 12/06/2007 10:45:00

I worked in a clothes shop, and found i couldn't touch the majority of the materials. It would send a shiver up my spine. Then i would get mild cramps. I visited the doctor who gave me an injection which he said would relieve the swelling. This didn't work. so a hospital appointment was made. I had both hands done at the same time, which i've since learnt is very unusual. Very inconvenient of course, i couldn't do anything. Luckily i had the support of my family. What surprises me is the age its suppose dto affect people, as i was only 22. I'm glad i had the operation because i am so much better. although when my hands are wet i still get the tingling sensation sometimes. My doctor was pretty efficient and sorted it straight away, however a doctor i saw a few years previous, told me it was all in my head. I think i was quite lucky in finding it before it got bad.


julie cunnington | 12/06/2007 11:04:00

I was diagnosed with CTS 15 years ago and have had many injections, i have never been offered an operation for this, but found that it was also affecting my elbow as well as my wrist, suddenly i was diagnosed with tennis elbow and golfers elbow and had an operation on the elbow 8 months ago, which has made no difference at all.

Evelyn Wolpert | 12/06/2007 11:12:00

I had the operation for Carpul Tunnel over 20 years ago and I can honestly say it was a complete waste of time. I had both hands done, and have not had a nights sleep because of the pins and needles I get in both hands, If you can find a cure please let me know, as it would be great to have an undisturbed night

coogie | 12/06/2007 11:15:00

After suffering badly(could only drive for about 15minutes at a time) with CTS for many years I have now had a release operation on both hands . I too had them done under local anaesthetic,the operation took longer on the left hand as the compression was worse.I was out of the hospital half an hour after the procedure and although it was a bit sore for a couple of weeks I was back at work after 10 days.I avoided having the steroid injections as my GP and the surgeon I saw both said they were painful and didn't last long.It is so great to have total relief and in the two years after the left hand and 18 months after the right I have no regression in either and no more splints,dropped glasses,broken nights etc.I am really sorry to hear others have had mixed results with their surgery.I would highly reccommend it;it has transformed my life,I am back to doing all the things I was struggling with pre- op.

Gerry | 12/06/2007 11:23:00

Between the age of 42 and 48 1992 to 1998, I have had CTS in both hands. Left hand first and then the right, numbness when driving or reading a paper anything where the hands were held up for any length of time. I had an operation on both hands and (touch wood) have had no problems since. Although I have had trigger fingers 2 on each hand which was also cured with an operation for each.

M Holmes-Taylor | 12/06/2007 12:16:00

I was first diagnosed with CTS in 1995. It all started with a cramp like sensation in fingers of my left hand and graduated to me being unable to straighten my fingers with putting my hand in warm water. As my left hand was the only one that works I was treated very quickly by the local hand surgeon and it was successful for about 7n years then symptoms returned. Again I received surgery and that lasted for about 5 years and have just recently had more surgery. It has a major impact on me as I am unable to do fine work such as writing with any great ease and am unable to fasten buttons or open draws with any comfort. However post operatively I enjoy great comfort and freedom but using my one hand to excess means that joints are deteriorating and have just undergone Arthrodesis of left thumb to ease pain but it does limit movement. I imagine that as time passes I will experience greater di9scomfort and limitation of movement and my part time carer may well become full time.

Marian | 12/06/2007 13:27:00

My mum developed carpal tunnel syndrome around the mid-40s. She wore splints in bed for a few months and that was it. It went away and didn't return (as far as I know) though she died early at 59. Around the same age I noticed that in certain positions: holding steering wheel or riding bicycle (bent back hands) my hands went numb, especially the left. Also occasionally I wake up with painful hands. But in all cases, a change of position soon restores normality so I haven't told my GP about it. I don't drive and cycle less these days, and rarely have any problems at all. Due to headaches, I take aspirin on average 3 days a month, and wonder if 'thinner blood' makes any difference.

Sue | 12/06/2007 13:29:00

I was first diagnosed 23 years ago when I was pregnant with my second child. I was told to strap a rolled up magazine to my arm and when going to sleep. It didn't really help I still got the numbness and pins and needles. Most of the time it is okay but when I use my arm for painting, writing or using the computer for any lengtgh of time the numbness comes back. I find that hanging my hand down seems to help temporariy. i have had a friend who had the operation and found it quite painful and was not allowed to drive/ use computer/write etc for 6 weeks!!



Sandy W | 12/06/2007 13:42:00

The first thing that happened to me was I felt the pins and needles in my left hand. Then I started dropping things, which I thought I had a hold of. This was really awkward I at the time my husband and I ran our own public house and I usad to do all the cooking. I was diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome in 1995. After undergoing nerve conduction studies, I had the operation. I was amazed to be told that I had no stitches after the operation, as they had "superglued" the cut together. Touch wood since the recovery period I have had no problems.

Donna Evans | 12/06/2007 13:52:00

Four years ago I was informed that I was indeed suffering from CTS. My right hans took about 3 hours to come to after a nights sleep and that was on a good day. I had intense pins and needles and my fingers although they looked normal felt the size of bananas. The pain was unbearable and so hot. I counldn't grip with my right hand and therefore was constantly dropping items, it was even begining to affect my driving. I started some physio and whilst the exercises started to work it was a very slow process. I was told it was a commom side effect due to fact I had just had my second child and had suffered from pre-eclampsia. Aftrer some months teh swolledn feeling started to subside and the pins and needls got less. I was told that at that point I shouldn't need the op to correct the problem and that unless I suffered an injury to the right hand or wrist there was no reason for the complaint to return. We arenow 4 years later and for the past 6 months have been suffereing again - this time with pins and needles regulary through the day, numbness every morning which is taking longer and longer to come round, I have yet to return to the doctor as i see little point. However if the symptoms continue to grow then i will be left we no choice.

sonia | 12/06/2007 17:31:00

i had bad pins and needles in my right hand for years, this got so bad i couldnt hold onto a cup sometimes, after 4yrs i finally had the operation to unblock the tunnel, which was great, but now in my 40s i have it returned to my left hand,it wakes me at night, and takes time to come back and get sensations gone, i have been to my drs several times but feel it is dismissed, maybe they should experience cts but hey ho i will keep going till i get some relief, i have after all only been waiting for help for 6 yrs

brenda | 12/06/2007 20:07:00

I had CTS for years and went to my GP last January. he refererred me to my local hospital and bt march I was booked in for my right hand to be done . When I had recovered I was then booked in for my left hand to be done, which was operated on in may. success no dead hands in the morning and no pins and needles. Also to look at my hands no unsightly scars. Brilliant!!!!

Cass | 12/06/2007 20:22:00

I had CTS a few years ago. My ring finger and little fingers started to seize up and my wrist became very painful. I went to see the doctor and she diagnosed CTS. Because one wrist/hand was particularly bad, she suggested cortisone injections which I had. After a week of bad pain caused by the injections, the symptoms went away, for the most part. I still had occasional twinges, but nothing as bad as the first occurrence. Only now, about 8 years later, when I've had to do a huge amount of typing on a laptop, am I starting to feel pain again, this time spreading further up my arm. I try to use a wrist rest for my keyboard and mouse as much as possible. I haven't been back to the doctor yet, but I will do so if it gets any worse. I am worried that I won't be able to do my job so effectively if I can't type (I do a lot of writing). It's also a pain not to be able to lift as much as we do a lot of camping etc. I have no suggestions for health care professionals - the only barrier is making the time/effort to go and see a doctor in the first place. I'd be happy to consider contributing to an online encyclopedia.

sally jennings | 12/06/2007 21:26:00

i would wake up with numbness in my arms and wrists, sometimes it would take all dau for the feeling to come back. then pain was horrible. i finually went to the doctor and that's when they dignosed me with carpal tunnel. i was told to wear splints on my hands that go up my arms when i went to bed and that relieved some of the pressure and numbness, but to this day, which is about 6 or 7 years later still have trouble and have had to quit my job. i also have other medical conditions, but am unable to get unemployment or disability and when i went before a judge about disability he couldn't understand why i hadn't asked for or had had surgery. gee, when you aren't working and have no money, how can you go and have surgery!

Andrea | 12/06/2007 21:27:00

I suffered from painin both elbows and shoulders, was woken several times a night with pins and needles. also had great difficulty with hand writing. I was diagnosed with carpel tunnel syndrome, and under went nerve condution studies to confirm , had both tendons released, (not at the same time), the left had has been more sucessful than the right, I still have great difficulty with completing any task with my right hand, and especially hand writing, it is extremely painful to write more that 5 words, My right had swells up over night to twice the size and i can not grip. which is a great hinderence to my job. I am at a loss, as to what else can be done.

janet baxter | 12/06/2007 21:43:00

My hands go numb in the night ,it was always worse a week before my period,but now its more often .My doctor said it sounded like carpel tunnel syndrome.I havent recieved anything for it as its not painful very often unless i have been using my hands a lot and then the ache is very painful,but so far its not bothering me enough to do anything about it.It is just mostly that my hands go numb in the night so i wake up and have to move them about to get the circulation back.I have had this now for quite a few years,cant remember when it started,but it was more than ten years ago when i was in my 30s,and there seemed no reason why it started.

margaret | 12/06/2007 22:41:00

I have had CTS for many years it used to waken me at night with pins and kneedles , When I was driving my hands would " go dead" I would shake them one at a time and it would go back to normal , I was down for surgery just waiting for an appointment when I was told it might return even after surgery , So I said no , It still bothers me especialy if I am painting and decoratig I using a knife to cut something when I am cooking , Yes it still bothers me , but I just stop walk about shaking my hands and I get back to what I am doing , I type with my index fingers and I am fine with that , I dont really think about it too much now I have learned to live with it .

Margaret | 12/06/2007 22:48:00

I have had CPS for many years now , It started with pins and needles and a lot of pain in my hands and I used to get up in the night and wash them in cold water and shake them about , I was waiting for a date for an operation but I was told it often came back again so I refused it , It still bothers me if I am painting and decorating or chopping witha knife , when I am driving My hands go dead usually only one at a time so I just shake them and they go OK again , I type with my 2 index fingers and at is always fine , I don't think about it too much really now , it is just a part of my life and I just get on with it .

Howard Clarke | 13/06/2007 10:05:00

I originally suffered fron pins and needles in individual fingers, and totally dead fingers, cold and feelingless. I had decompression carried out on both wrists together, and I have never looked back, I would recommend the operation to anyone.

ANNE GREGORY | 13/06/2007 11:20:00

I had CPS for a year. It started where my left hand felt numb and I could't pick anything up then the pins and needles started. I then had to raise my arm above my head to get some relief, after a while the pain shot up my arm to just below my elbow. I then saw a specialist who said i needed an operation. I waited 3 weeks and had the operation just before Christmas 2004.

FM | 13/06/2007 14:48:00

I was diagnosed with CTS in 2004 after suffering with pins and needles and constantly dropping things. I used to shake them to 'release' it and it was annoying and painful. At the time I was seeing a consultant about my Cancer so as he was also an ortho surgeon I asked at the end of a consultation. He confirmed the problem and luckily for me said he could operate soon. He said there was injections but the only real solution was the operation. I decided to go ahead with it and although there are still slight problems (my hand is weaker that side) it has made life SO much better. I have come across so many consultants/medical professionals since I became ill and the only recommendation I can give is that 'they listen to the patient' as the patient knows their own body and instinctively knows when something is not right. If they listen earlier it would solve a lot of problems and ease the finances on the NHS in a lot of cases. Good Luck to anyone considering the op, it's the best thing in my book!!!

Susan | 13/06/2007 15:20:00

First symptoms was the numbness in my wrist, it started after i was pregnant. My consultant obsterician diagnosed it, and said it would either get better after having the baby or i would have to have an operation. He said mostly in pregnancy it just goes away as it came. It was treated by mostly rest and some exercise.

Mrs A | 13/06/2007 15:20:00

As a follower of chiropractic/homeopathic and other natural forms of treatment, I don't think ppl want to know how we keep CTS under control. They need a treatment that works instantly, and there is to date none. A valuable book by Sharon Butler (amazon) gives excersises and expanations which can help.

chrisi | 13/06/2007 18:05:00

I suffered with this problem several years ago. My mother had the same trouble back in the late 1970's and she had the operation which although painful for a few days, did cure it. When I developed the problem several years later, I was at that time seeing an ostiopath for a back complaint and he suggested a treatment which involved placing pads soaked in TCP on my wrist and passing an electrical pulse through it. I was very sceptical, but after a couple of treatments there was a marked improvement and after about six consecutive treatments,weekly I think, the problem had gone and I've had no trouble ever since.

stan lloyd | 13/06/2007 19:04:00

ihad carpel tunnels in both hands the first symtoms I got was waking with sevier pain in my arms going down to my hands when diagnosed they operated on my left hand first and a year later the same on the right they took about two weeks to heal and I think it was the best thing as sice then ten years ago I have not had anymore pain from them (touch wood) just small scars on my wrists I would surgest to any one to get it done rather than going throug that pain as I was only in surgery for half a day and home again as it was only a day case under general anasthetic

June | 13/06/2007 20:27:00

Although only diagnosed with cts 6 years ago I believe it started over 20 years ago but many of the symptoms were mixed up with the ones I had for MS, pins and needles, loss of grip etc. .The pain at night only started about 7 years ago and I could only relieve it by hanging my hands down over the side of the bed. I hated having to use the wrist splints at night so would quite often be awake. Driving became a real bind whereas before I loved it and anything to do with periods of time on the computer was a nightmare and I would really suffer the next day. Typing with wrist splints on isn't easy but I was not offered alternative work. Once diagnosed I was given the option of either leaving them or having them operated on and if I chose the operation then it was up to me whether I had one or both done at the same time. My daughter had , had the same operations done the previous year and she had hers done at separate times. They were done by different surgeons and had different results.One worked and the other was sewn differerntly and even today causes a problem. I decided to have both done at the same time under a local anaesthetic and I couldn't be happier with the result. I had no pain or tenderness, both healed really well and quickly and I was able to drive in 6 weeks. I have had no recurrence and the tennis elbows I had as well have now gone too. With regard to advice to professionals I would hope that eventually GP's could give the injections instead of having to wait for hospital appointments or specialist nurses. I would ask that cts not be regarded as a minor condition as it affects mental health as well as physical if you have it for long enough with the pain and limitations affecting work, life and sleep and family interaction.

TJ | 13/06/2007 20:47:00

Having been a fast typist for most of my working life, I started getting the symptoms of CTS in my early 30's. Following a pregnancy aged 35 the CTS seemed to progress really quickly and became quite bad in both of my hands. There was numbness each morning upon waking then tingling. My hands used to lock up, and I regularly dropped everything. Following nerve conduction tests I had both hands operated on together under general anaesthetic aged 36. The relief was immediate, and I suffered numbness to my left hand around the scar. I am glad I had both hands operated on together as it was all over in one go. It is now 6 years since I had the op, and my hands have been fine since. My hands do occasionally lock up, but nothing like they were before. I find using a stapler is the main thing that makes this happen, so I work around it.

chris | 13/06/2007 21:20:00

Hi Has anyone developed fibromyalgia as a result of have a CT op? I have a legal case going on, and the other side have decided in their wisdom that it was the CT op that "triggered" fibro and NOT the RTA which I was claiming against..... comments welcome thanks

AngelaG | 13/06/2007 21:50:00

Hi, I am 49 years old and have had CTS must of my adult life. In my early 20's I would be woken up over and over again with acute pain, numbness and pins and needles. I had surgery on both my wrists in my mid 20's with little effect. Any use of my hands (working in the kitchen, writing, computer work) increases the above symptoms. In subsequent years, especially the last 10 to 25 years I have had ulna nerve decompression and an operation for tennis elbow but I still have problems with both my wrists and elbows. I have been unable to work for the last 4 years and have been told I will never work again. I can not do every day tasks such as lifting a kettle, carrying shopping or doing up buttons. My advise to anyone suffering CTS is get treatment as soon as possible. Don't let any medical practitioner put you on hold. Don't let them put so much faith into nerve condition study results, they can and are sometimes completely wrong! If damaged nerves are left untreated for too long the damage can be permanent. My advise to help doctors would be really listen to your patients, ask the right questions and don't put their lives on hold for the sake of waiting lists. I have finally been given PREGABALIN Capsules to help with the nerve pains but as yet have had little improvement. Sorry this all sounds so negative but CTS affects your whole quality of life. I've had times when I've been unable to hold a glass of water or hold a car steering wheel.


June Vanner | 14/06/2007 07:23:00

Having always been known as a prolific letter writer, I considered for years, that this was why I suffered such awful pain in my right hand while writing and sewing. I found that my sleep was being more and more disturbed, having to put my hand into bowls of cold water to relieve the severe pain. Eventually, on visiting my G.P. on another matter, I mentioned this, and she referred me to a consultant who confirmed that I had C.T.S. I had the operation at Haslar Hospital six months later, which was not the horrifying experience that I had been expecting. I managed to cope with all aspects of living alone for the week afterwards, and now have a practically invisible scar to show off. This happened eighteen months ago, and admittedly, if I overdo the letter-writing, typing or sewing, I do have to stop for a rest, but would certainly not put anyone off having the operation if necessary.

Margaret Stone | 14/06/2007 08:09:00

How interesting to read these comments. I went to my GP when the tingling,pain and numbness of my left hand got bad enough to be unreasonable. His diagnosis consisted of rubbing his thumb across my wrist and asking if that caused my fingers to tingle, I said yes and he said you have CTS.Nothing more has been said or done about it and I continue to walk the floor in the night and use two bowls of water - one hot and one cold- to alternatively stick my hand in to try and make the circulation return.I too own mismatched crockery as I never know when something is going to slide from my fingers. Unfortunately my doctor's practice seems to take little interest in anyone over 65 and just hand out platitudes.

annette orphan | 14/06/2007 12:19:00

i had c.t.s for many years after the birth of my children. i had an operation on my left hand then 2 yrs later had the other hand done,ive had no problems since

margaret skipper | 14/06/2007 13:44:00

both my hands were affected they just seized up for most of the day in a claw like fist and were very painful sometimes it was better if i put them under a hot running tap this would sometimes release it. I had been a knitter for many years never without a pair of needles in my hand I then got a tempory cleaning job which involved using a sweeping brush I believe this was what started the condition as I was using different muscles in my hands . I tried cortisol injections to no effect so had the operation on both wrists at the same time (luckily have a brilliant husband) this was 20 years ago and although it was a good year before I felt my hands were back to ' normal 'I no longer knit as I find it to uncomfortable I always wear a magnet bracelet which helps and most of the time my hands are fine I do find that if I use a computer for too long that my wrists get painful but find that if I wear an elastic bandage for a few hours this soon sorts it out

Joan Jarvis | 14/06/2007 16:34:00

I broke my wrist and had to have a plate put in due to my job as a cook doctor informed me after wards that he had done my c t at same time and my hand no longer goes numb which was said to be from my neck My mother at 82 had her cts done and hands are now straighter and nolonger drops things its a new lease of independace for her

Andrew F. Haynes | 14/06/2007 19:44:00

37 Years ago, I began to experiencec "pins and needles" sensation iin my right arm, I visited my G.P. who immediately suggested Carpal Tunnel Sndrome. I was sent to see Consultant Surgeon and an operation was performed under local anaestetic . It was very painful as they wrapped my entire arn in a thick rubber band to manage blood flow. After all that time, I often forget the pain and discomfort of the illness,which haas now totally disappeared except that I , from time to time I drop things from my right hand withouth realising that I have done so . Othertwise no problems. I say if you have this poroblem go for the operation

Elaine F | 15/06/2007 09:39:00

It's hard to say what my first symptoms were but pins and needles, being woken p by my hand being 'dead' and clawed, dropping things without warning all seem to have happened arond the same time. My right hand is worse than my left. I was offered a steroid injection about 6 weeks ago when i was having them for my rheumatoid arthritis but after the pain of the injections into my knees i couldn't face another one at that time. I regret it now. I have had nerve condction tests which confirmed CTS.



Scarlett | 15/06/2007 10:55:00

I was diagnosed with CTS about 3 months ago. I had tingling and pins and needles in my right hand. I also had pain radiating up to my elbow and was unable to move my arm for a few minutes. I often wake up in the morning with my hand numb. I was diagnosed by my GP after being persuaded by my colleague (who suffers with RSI) to see a doctor. My symptoms are now getting worse and I am going back to the doctor as it is affecting me at work as I use a computer all day. I am now finding it harder to grip anything e.g. a mouse because of the pins and needles. I have also now noticed that I am getting the symptoms holding a handbag or gripping anything in my right hand. My GP has said that they will refer me to rheumatology at my local hospital, so I am waiting to see what they suggest.

chem | 15/06/2007 12:42:00

20 years since I had carpal tunnel syndrome. Began with Tingling/numbess in fingers of right hand leading to acute pain in my arm during the night. Hospital diagnosed carpal tunnel and operation took place which was very successful. Symptoms have not returned and I had the full use back in my hand within a short period.

Nanny Jay | 16/06/2007 02:48:00

I was diagnosed with CTS 5 years ago in my right hand. I awoke early hours with the mind numbing pins & needles pain - I used to bash my hand against the wall just to get the circulation going. After visiting my Doctor who informed me of the condition suggested injections first. Before this could take place I was moved into a new area and had to sign on to a different Doctors. I told them the problem and was ignored and I still am. The pain is now in both hands and very unbearable. I am often told its just arthritius. My hands especially my right hand swelll up like footballs that I cant bend my fingers (I think this is arthritus) with CTS, or they are so stiff I cant open them, most mornings I cant make tea, answer the phone or use a pen/pencil. I might as well be lifting 100lb weights. I am only prescribed pain killers for other problems. I was eventually sent to see a consultant only with regards to my right knee, when I told him about my wrist he was very apopleptic and totally dissinterested. I am suffereing so badly every day that I now feel I cant talk about it to anybody muh less hope for treatment. How much longer can this go on. I do have good days and bad days. The good days follow from a day of nothingness, no jobs, no typing, no washing up, no nothing - just watching tv - how boring, then again the next day I can make a cuppa! How does one live like this. I am in my 50's I cant spend the rest of my life doing nothing (some might like that). If I do gardening the pain intensifies and thats before morning! any body got any home help suggestions. I've tried that glucosamine gel, no difference only softer skin! painkillers but they are not really suitable for this, after bashing my hands against the wall or something hard it eases - only temporarily. Most of my friends dont understand and wonder whats wrong when I bash my hands against my hips this helps.I've tried the wrist and hand supports but the tingling gets worse. running my hands under water helps either hot or cold depending. the worst thing I can do is hold my hands up, lowering them helps. Apart from that I dont know what else to do. Apart from scream. Yes its that painful it tearful. In answer to the last question - Yes.

Frances Pusey | 18/06/2007 08:46:00

I was diagnosed with Carpal Tunnel in both wrists10 years ago, whilst pregnant with my second child. It settled down after I had her, only to reappear 4 years later, but only in my left hand. I was unable to sleep due to the pain and was restricted in my everyday life, so opted for the operation. Although somewhat uncomfortable for a few weeks, I can honestly say that I now have no further problems since the surgery, but I was told that I may encounter problems in my right wrist in later years as it is common to have to have both operated on. I wuld encourage anyone who is suffering to have the operation, rather than put up with the pain and side effects painkillers have.

Dawn Wood | 18/06/2007 19:24:00

I had CTS in 2002 along with other aches and pains. I was eventually diagnosed with ME as thyroid tests came back 'normal'. CTS being one fo the symptoms I discovered in the US the range for thyroid testing had been reduced by about half of what it is here 9 0.3-3.0) and kept persuing this A year later I was finally diagnosed with thyroid antibodies and put on medication (armour thyroid) and once on a decent dose my pains went and I was able to go back to my job as a seamstress where as previously I ahdn't been able to hold a needle. If you do have a thyroid problem (diagnosed or otherwise) then you need to be on a good dose of medication for your body to get rid of all these pains many people experience a similar pain in their ankles as well which is also related www.thyroid-disease.org.uk

Miichael | 20/06/2007 21:51:00

I first experienced what I was told was CTS 'tenovinisitus' (if correctly spelt?) in the early 80's. I was working as a telephonist in a large London teaching hospital and - it felt as though I had a 'sticky-ness' in my wrist - this was unfortunate as I have only one working arm due to paralysis as a result of Polio. I was seen by a Consultant in the Dept over my head (as it happens) who told me that it was either one or the other and could only recommend either 1) hydrocortizone injections, 2) rest or 3) surgery. I opted for the 4th and did nothing about it. 1) I hate injections 2) rest was / is simply not an option given my circumstances 3) ’Surgery’ sounded as drastic as having needles stuck into me I have probably got away with things (in this area) very lightly as I rarely (touch wood) have experienced any reoccurences of this, though sometimes my wrist feels a ’weakness.’ On the other hand, I have likley made up for that ‘getting away with it’ as I’ve a spectrum of other associated Polio and Aorta problems going on in my life.

katfish | 02/07/2007 05:05:00

I began having trouble with CTS back in the 70's. Of course, I was in the Army at the time. I started out as a mechanic and was actually working in the job. When I had to have surgery on my jaw, they moved me to the Maintenance office and I picked up a secondary of clerk-typist. If I typed for any length of time, I would have to stop and rest my hands for a while before I could finish. My fingers and wrists would have pins and needles, going to sleep or just hurting in general. (I was in my early twenties.) I had to rest my hands quite frequently. I have not had a job that my hands did not bother me since then. About 1983, I had them checked with my PCP who confirmed CTS. I have been wearing wrist braces since 1990.About this same time period, I began having trouble holding or lifting pans when cooking or baking. I have even dropped the whole pan of food on the floor or stove and had to re-cook for a meal. I have had no luck using both hands to lift or move them either. In 1996, they did a complete bone scan of my body and confirmed my worst fear - arthritis in both wrists and hands. This is when I was told they could not perform surgery because of the exent of the arthritis. I developed tennis elbow and had to wear an arm brace at night. That got old very quickly. If I put my arms above my head when sleeping, both hands, wrists and arms go to sleep so that when I wake up - I feel nothing. Just like my other health problems, I tolerate the problems. I sincerely hope you have better luck than I did.



Deirdre Doherty | 03/07/2007 12:18:00

I had painful pins & needles, especially at night when my hands would go numb, but I also get very sharp stabbing pains through my wrist & up into my fingers. I had the feeling tests done in hospital, but was classed as not severe enough to warrant surgery, however it became a lot more severe in my left hand after a fall which caused the metal frame of my purse to skewer the ball of my hand & enter the Carpal tunnel. Careerwise, it has made working more painful, but the needs must so I have to just grin & bear it. I'm not sure what the best way to treat this is, but if anyone else had had any success, I would love to hear about it. My mother had both wrists operatedon at the same time & did have relief for a while, but it came back, so I'm not too keen on surgery, unless I know it's going to be permanent.

Mary McDowell | 11/07/2007 14:50:00

Hi I'm May I have had cts in both hands. It started in the late 70s in one hand and by the late 80s I had it in both hands. It was really hard to live with and made working extremely difficult. My hands would go numb and I would drop things really dangerous when you are carrying something hot. I would get pins and needles and then my hands would go numb and I would have to shake my arm to get the feeling back. I eventually had an operation on my right hand but I had so much pain for months afterwards that I decided not to have my left hand done.

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