Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/73202
Fast relief for carpal tunnel syndrome "It started with my hands tingling and going numb. Then both my arms and hands began hurting 24 hours a day," says Jeannie Waltrip of Exeter. Jeannie had trouble sleeping because of the pain, and driving was difficult because of the numbness in her hands. Even holding her cell phone to talk was difficult. Jeannie took anti-inflammatory pills and wore wrist braces, but this only helped with her symptoms for a little while. Jeannie's niece, Angela Luney of Cassville, started having similar symptoms. "I started having pain in my neck, shoulder and palm of my hand. I was also losing strength in my right hand, which was affecting my cake decorating business," says Angela. Taking action "Ever since my surgery my hand has not bothered me and I am back to decorating cakes," says Angela. Jeannie and Angela went to see their primary care physicians. They were both diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, and were referred to Dr. Erin Greer, an orthopedic surgeon, who sees patients at The Bone and Joint Center in Springfield and at Cox Monett. "Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a pinched median nerve at the base of Dr. Erin Greer the palm of the hand. This particular nerve is important for sensation and motion of the hand," says Dr. Greer. "Increased pressure can compress the nerve and cause weakness, pain, tingling or numbness." Dr. Greer recommended surgery at the Meyer Orthopedic Hospital for both ladies. 6