Is It Carpal Tunnel or Something Else? How to Know for Sure
When tingling, numbness, or pain in your hand and wrist start to interfere with your daily life, it’s natural to assume Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is to blame. However, similar symptoms can result from other nerve compression conditions - most commonly Cubital Tunnel Syndrome. Understanding the differences between these two can help you find the right treatment and lasting relief.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve - which runs through the carpal tunnel in your wrist - becomes compressed. This nerve controls sensation and movement in your thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.
Common symptoms include:
• Tingling or numbness in the thumb and first three fingers
• Hand weakness or trouble gripping objects
• Pain that worsens at night or with repetitive wrist movements
CTS is often caused by repetitive hand motions, wrist positioning, or underlying conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.
Could It Be Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Instead?
If your symptoms extend beyond your wrist and affect your ring and pinky fingers, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome could be the cause. This condition results from pressure on the ulnar nerve, which runs behind your elbow and controls sensation in the outer fingers.
Typical signs of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include:
• Numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
• Pain or aching along the inside of the elbow
• Weakness when gripping or spreading fingers
• Symptoms that worsen when bending the elbow for long periods
Because both syndromes involve nerve compression, they can be mistaken for one another without a professional evaluation.
How to Know for Sure
Accurately diagnosing the source of your nerve pain requires a comprehensive consultation and examination. Dr. Steven Clark in Dallas, Texas, specializes in diagnosing and treating both Carpal Tunnel and Cubital Tunnel Syndromes. During your visit, Dr. Clark will perform physical tests, review your symptoms, and may recommend nerve conduction studies or imaging tests to pinpoint the exact location of compression.
If conservative treatments such as bracing, activity modification, or anti-inflammatory medications don’t relieve your symptoms, Dr. Clark offers surgical release procedures to decompress the affected nerve and restore proper hand and arm function.
Get Expert Care for Carpal and Cubital Tunnel Syndrome in Dallas, TX
Persistent hand or arm pain shouldn’t be ignored. Whether it’s Carpal Tunnel, Cubital Tunnel, or another nerve condition, getting the right diagnosis is the key to long-term relief and prevention of permanent nerve damage.
Schedule a consultation at Clark Plastic Surgery to find out whether your symptoms are caused by Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, or another condition. Visit our office in Dallas, Texas, or call (469) 675-3659 to book an appointment today.
