Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Non-Surgical Treatment in Palm Beach

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed or irritated, causing numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. It is one of the most common nerve compression conditions, particularly affecting individuals with repetitive hand use or prolonged wrist positions.

At Palm Beach Regenerative, Dr. Ghattas offers Nerve Hydrodissection, an image-guided technique that uses precise injection to free the median nerve from surrounding adhesions and reduce compression, as a non-surgical alternative for appropriate CTS cases. Give us a call for more information.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligaments. The median nerve passes through this tunnel, as do the tendons of the hand. When swelling, inflammation, or structural narrowing compresses the nerve within this space, the characteristic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome develop.

Signs and Symptoms

• Numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger
• Symptoms typically worse at night or upon waking
• Weakness and difficulty gripping or pinching
• Sensation of the hand 'falling asleep'
• Pain that may radiate up the forearm
• Dropping objects due to reduced grip strength

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Repetitive hand or wrist movements
• Prolonged wrist flexion (typing, sleeping with wrists bent)
• Pregnancy-related fluid retention
• Thyroid or metabolic conditions affecting nerve health
• Inflammatory arthritis
• Obesity

How It Is Diagnosed

Electrodiagnostic testing (nerve conduction studies and EMG) provides objective confirmation of median nerve compression and helps grade severity. Ultrasound imaging allows direct visualization of the median nerve at the wrist, assessing nerve swelling and mobility within the carpal tunnel.

Dr. Ghattas uses diagnostic ultrasound to evaluate the nerve and plan the hydrodissection procedure.

Conventional Treatment Options

• Wrist splinting, especially at night, to maintain neutral wrist position
• Activity modification and ergonomic adjustments
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Steroid injections: Temporary relief by reducing inflammation within the carpal tunnel
• Carpal tunnel release surgery: Cutting the carpal ligament to decompress the nerve, effective for moderate-to-severe cases

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

Nerve Hydrodissection is a specialized ultrasound-guided technique where precise injection of fluid, typically a platelet preparation, is used to separate the median nerve from surrounding scar tissue and adhesions within the carpal tunnel.

This technique reduces the mechanical compression on the nerve and may help support the nerve's own healing response. It is performed under real-time ultrasound guidance to ensure the needle and injectate are precisely positioned adjacent to the nerve.

Nerve Hydrodissection may be an appropriate option for patients with mild-to-moderate CTS who wish to explore non-surgical alternatives before committing to surgery. Patients with severe nerve compression and significant muscle wasting (thenar atrophy) typically require surgical evaluation.

The BioMod Advantage: At Palm Beach Regenerative, treatment does not end with a single injection. Through our BioMod Lab, Dr. Ghattas may combine your orthobiologic procedure with MLS Robotic Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation and support tissue recovery, alongside customized Xymogen supplement protocols designed to optimize your body's healing environment. This integrated, concierge approach is what sets Palm Beach Regenerative apart from a standard injection clinic.

Like all medical procedures, orthobiologic treatments have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.