Slocum Orthopedics evaluates and treats Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for patients across Eugene, Springfield, and the southern Willamette Valley. Our hand and wrist specialists help patients understand the cause of hand numbness, tingling, and weakness while providing personalized treatment options to restore comfort and function.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it travels through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel.
Pressure on the median nerve can interfere with normal nerve function and lead to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can often be managed with nonsurgical treatment, although surgery may be recommended when symptoms become more severe or do not improve.
Symptoms most commonly affect the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger. Some patients describe a “pins and needles” sensation, burning, aching, or numbness that worsens after repetitive hand use or prolonged wrist positioning.
Many patients also experience symptoms that interfere with daily activities and sleep, including waking at night with numbness or pain, shaking the hand for relief, difficulty gripping objects, or weakness that causes them to drop items. Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated.
Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Diagnosis begins with a thorough physical examination of the hand and wrist. Your provider will review your symptoms, evaluate wrist movement, assess hand strength and sensation, and determine whether Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is present and how severe the condition may be.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging allows your provider to evaluate the structures within the wrist and measure the size of the median nerve. An enlarged nerve may indicate compression within the carpal tunnel.
Nerve Conduction Study
A nerve conduction study evaluates how well electrical signals travel through the median nerve. Slower nerve conduction may indicate compression and help determine the severity of the condition.
Medical Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Many patients experience symptom relief with nonsurgical treatment, particularly when symptoms are mild or moderate.
Wrist Bracing
A wrist brace may help relieve symptoms by holding the wrist in a neutral position during sleep and, when appropriate, throughout the day.
Steroid Injection
A steroid injection may reduce inflammation around the median nerve and temporarily relieve symptoms. While this treatment may improve symptoms for several weeks, it is generally considered a short-term treatment option.
When Surgery is Considered
If symptoms become more severe or do not improve with nonsurgical treatment, carpal tunnel release may be recommended.
The procedure relieves pressure on the median nerve by dividing the transverse carpal ligament, creating more space within the carpal tunnel and improving nerve function.
Why Patients in Eugene Turn to Slocum for Hand & Wrist Care
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community moving. Our hand and wrist specialists provide comprehensive care for common and complex conditions affecting the fingers, hand, wrist, and upper extremity, supported by on-site imaging, therapy, and orthopedic surgical care.
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Feature
August 15, 2025
Slocum to Open New Surgery Center in Eugene
Slocum Orthopedics is building a brand-new, physician-led ambulatory surgery center right here in Eugene. This state-of-the-art facility will expand access to high-quality orthopedic care and help meet the growing demand for surgical services in our community.
