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Talking to Your Doctor About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Talking to Your Doctor About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

You have your own health history. Talk with your doctor about your risk factors and background with carpal tunnel syndrome. You can take an active role in your care by talking openly and often with your doctor.

General Tips for Gathering Information

Here are some tips that may help:

  • Bring someone with you. It helps to have another person hear what is said and think of things to ask.
  • Write out your questions ahead of time. This way you will not forget them.
  • Write down the answers you get. Make sure you understand what is said. Ask for more details if you need them.
  • Do not be afraid to ask questions or ask where you can find more information. You have a right to know.

Specific Questions to Ask Your Doctor

About Symptoms

  • What other things might cause these symptoms?

About Your Risk of Getting Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

  • Do my work and lifestyle habits put me at risk for this?
  • How can I reduce my risk when I do repetitive tasks with my hands at work?

About Treatment Options

  • Which treatment would help me the most?

About Lifestyle Changes

  • Which lifestyle habits should I focus on first?

About Your Outlook

  • Do I need to change jobs?
  • Which jobs are best for people who have this?
  • Can this cause long-term harm?

References

  • American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). Clinical Practice Guideline on the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. AAOS 2016 Feb PDF.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/carpal-tunnel-syndrome.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Carpal-Tunnel-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet.

Contributors

  • Teresa Briedwell, PT, DPT, OCS, CSCS
Last Updated:
2022-03-01

(C) Copyright 2022 EBSCO Information Services

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.