I’m a gastroenterologist, and lately, I’ve been experiencing severe wrist pain every time I hold the endoscopy equipment. I’ve even received injections for tenosynovitis, but the pain hasn’t improved. What kind of treatment would you recommend?
A patient recently visited us at Seoul Painfree Rehabilitation Clinic, complaining of wrist pain. Later, he mentioned that he is a gastroenterologist and performs a high volume of endoscopic procedures. He shared that at some point, simply gripping the endoscope and rotating his thumb started to cause significant pain.
He had already received several injections for tenosynovitis at another clinic, but his condition did not improve, which led him to seek help from us. After receiving treatment at our clinic, he was able to comfortably resume performing endoscopies.
Today, we’d like to talk in detail about why persistent pain in the thumb and wrist can occur, and introduce a common condition known as carpal tunnel syndrome.
Table of Contents 🔹 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Caused by Frequent Use of the Wrist 🔹 Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 🔹 How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Diagnosed 🔹 Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
🔹 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Caused by Frequent Use of the Wrist At the front of our wrist lies a very narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel. Through this small space run numerous nerves, blood vessels, and ligaments. When the wrist is overused or strained, the ligaments can become inflamed or swollen.
As a result, the space within the carpal tunnel narrows, compressing the median nerve. This pressure can cause tingling, numbness, or abnormal sensations in the areas served by the nerve. This condition is known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).
CTS is the most common nerve-related disorder in the arms and is so prevalent that nearly 50% of people may experience it at some point in their lives. That’s why extra care and early attention are essentia.
🔹 Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed. This nerve is responsible for the sensation and motor control of the palm side of the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.
As a result, patients may experience pain, burning sensations, and tingling in the wrist and the first three fingers. A burning or tingling sensation often radiates from the wrist to the palm and fingers, especially affecting the thumb side of the hand.
These symptoms tend to worsen at night and can also be triggered by movements that narrow the carpal tunnel—such as bending the wrist or tapping on it.
While the exact cause of the condition isn’t always clear, thickening of the transverse carpal ligament, which surrounds the carpal tunnel, is often observed in people who frequently use their wrists. Other contributing factors can include fractures, dislocations, infections, or inflammatory diseases.
🔹 How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Diagnosed
Simple Self-Check
Before visiting a clinic, you can try a quick self-assessment at home. Place the backs of your hands together and bend your wrists at a 90-degree angle, keeping the position for over one minute.
If you experience numbness, tingling, discomfort, or any abnormal sensations, especially in your fingers or wrist, it may be a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome—prompt medical evaluation and treatment are recommended.
Electromyography (EMG) Test
At the clinic, an electromyography (EMG) test may be performed. This test detects changes in electrical signals to determine whether there is nerve damage, especially in cases involving musculoskeletal conditions.
EMG allows doctors to assess both the nerves and muscles involved. It is not a lengthy or uncomfortable procedure, and at our clinic, the test can be performed and results reviewed on the same day, making it a convenient and effective way to identify any underlying issues in the body.
🔹 Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Nerve Block Injection
One effective method to manage carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve block injection, which targets the affected area directly around the nerve.
This treatment involves injecting a local anesthetic to block abnormal pain signals and reduce swelling. Patients often experience rapid pain relief immediately after the procedure.
A major advantage of this treatment is that it does not use steroids, making it safe for repeated sessions if necessary.
In addition to injection therapy, manual therapy and exercise therapy can also be prescribed depending on the patient’s condition. At our clinic, manual therapy is performed directly by licensed chiropractic professionals who hold accredited degrees from the United States.
We also offer Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), safely administered by medical staff who have completed certified training through Storz Medical. These therapies aim to relieve pain, improve function, and promote long-term recovery tailored to each patient’s needs.
At our clinic, manual therapy is aimed at improving the movement of muscles or joints that are the source of pain, which can help alleviate the discomfort. We develop personalized treatment programs based on accurate diagnoses and thorough examinations. Since the therapy is performed entirely by hand, the practitioner’s technique plays a crucial role in its effectiveness.
The gastroenterologist featured in today’s case mentioned that their hospital also has an ultrasound machine, so I showed them how to examine the finger-related muscles through hands-on guidance and explained how they can manage their condition using that approach.
It seemed that, while focusing on treating patients, the doctor hadn’t been able to properly recognize or address their own pain. That’s why we made sure to guide them carefully on how to perform thorough self-examinations.
Many others also suffer from discomfort caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. If you are experiencing similar issues, please feel free to visit us at Seoul Painfree Rehabilitation Clinic.
Thank you.
