after "There's a little . Wrist Rotations. However, with early Treatment for carpal tunnel includes resting the hand and wrist, splinting the wrist, and corticosteroid injections. I did try, once, to not play for a period of time (among other things). carpal tunnel symptoms. But if you've tried everything with no results, carpal tunnel surgery may be your only alternative. progresses, you will find it challenging to grip objects and move your hands Sometimes, our bodies need a little break so that we can come back to the piano refreshed and ready to play again. I have tried the old wrist brace, plus resting my hands and wrists forever with no success. Even while you hand is in bandages, a light bang can easily rip your stitches open. The routine repetitive stress is often more intense than those of a computer programer or computer data entry specialist. 6 weeks ago, I had carpal tunnel release surgery --. About, have another (revision) carpal tunnel surgery. If your su. Activities with your hand are limited. A potential risk that can affect anyone after this surgery is returning CTS symptoms. imperative to quick recovery and stopping the progression of the syndrome. In both cases, your doctor cuts the ligament around the carpal tunnel to take pressure off the median nerve and relieve your symptoms. When you recover well enough from the anesthesia and the staff is satisfied there are no complications, you're cleared for discharge. In this case, the timing of return can take twice as long. If the pain does not go away, a person may have pillar pain or another complication that requires medical treatment. . The Carpal Solution is a gentle stretching therapy that is applied to your hand before retiring to bed. BUT dont play the piano with cold hands and wrists. Does Cold Weather Make Carpal Tunnel Worse? Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a variety of conditions that occur as a result of repetitive movement. ligaments that creates a narrow tunnel at the base of your hand. The surgeon will give you instructions for all of these. The carpal tunnel surgery itself may pose complications. This is needed to clearly visualize the overall structures inside the wrist. Dr. Brent Wells, D.C. is the founder of Better Health Chiropractic & Physical Rehab and has been a chiropractor for over 20 years. The URL is, Reply #16 on: January 08, 2012, 04:37:17 AM, Reply #17 on: January 08, 2012, 07:29:11 AM. Then I usually just put my arm on my leg, and it's a very simple exercise, you're just going like this. that support the idea that endoscopic has better recovery rates for musicians than open (or anything else related, for that matter)? The only other major concern to think about is the possibility of. You can gently massage the scar and surrounding skin with vitamin C + E cream. 02. Best food forward: Are algae the future of sustainable nutrition? In open release surgery, the long incision lets the surgeon. I actually think that my continuing to play (under an hour a day, often less than 30 minutes) may have helped me to not completely atrophy, etc., especially as I suspect that piano is not the main culprit here. According to a 2009 study in the International Overall recovery depends on two major factors. This can help to reduce accumulated fluid in your hands and decrease pressure on the median nerve. Also at this point, you will be able to drive a car safely. Proper aftercare for carpal tunnel surgery determines how long you'll be out of commission. Generally these include: When you go home from the operation, and for the next 2 weeks until the stitches are removed, you must be careful to treat the surgical area with tender loving care. How long a person needs to take time away from work will depend on their occupation. Like the industry, the AFM is also changing and evolving, and its policies and programs will move in new directions dictated by its members. Can carpal tunnel go away? As one progresses to the severe stage, the numbness or pain remains constant, and there is no respite during the day or night. Raise your hands above your head throughout the day. We can help you. It is critical to keep your pianists hands clean during rehearsals, practice, and performance. narrows, your median nerve will begin to compress and squeeze, creating pain 68% of those revision surgeries fail. There's also a greater chance of incompletely cutting the ligament. I've heard advocates for both (tho none who worked with musicians, to be fair). Of course, your own speed of recovery and healing as well as the existence of chronic illnesses are other key factors. Most people wondering what to expect after carpal tunnel surgery fail to see the bigger picture. Reply #8 on: December 10, 2011, 07:27:36 PM. It is vital to consider that the side effects are rare. Muscle atrophy is unacceptable for an accomplished musician, performing piano instrumentalists, electronic keyboard musician or player of an electronic synthesizer. For piano players, the possibility of developing For piano players, the possibility of developing carpal tunnel is a real concern. He is a proud member of the American Chiropractic Association and the American Academy of Spine Physicians. Can I still play piano with carpal tunnel? Can you still play? The weakness, numbness, and tingling in the hands caused by carpal tunnel syndrome - not to mention the pain! Other times, a second hole in the hand is needed to insert the scalpel (double portal technique). Learn more about recurrent carpal tunnel. Of course, as with all surgery, there is a risk of death, but such rarely happens during carpal tunnel surgery. I had it done on right hand 5 days ago. AFter that, I never stopped playing entirely, until recently. Keeping up with proper piano technique, warming up with finger exercises before practice sessions, and stretching on a regular basis can help prevent repetitive stress injuries. you chose will recommend performing one of two basic types of carpal tunnel hand operations: Its a thin tube inserted into the palm that contains a fiberoptic camera. I sympathize with you! This is the preferred method to treat pain right at the source relying on the body's natural healing mechanisms. I didn't go there for that, but was able to get a referral while there for something else, and was able to get the surgery done before leaving, which I felt ok about. Your elbows may seem like an odd place to hurt, but keep in mind that most of the muscles that act on your wrist and fingers have their . This tunnel That means your job probably allowed the condition to develop in the first place. You should consider surgery as your only option if all other options fail. Ask your surgeon for specific guidelines, but you may be allowed to use your hand for non-repetitive motions within a week or two after surgery. Cubital tunnel syndrome is an impingement or irritation of the ulnar nerve within the cubital tunnel at the elbow. Use a stool. Can poor sleep impact your weight loss goals? This includes doing repeated arm or hand movements, such as typing or using a computer mouse, washing windows, vacuuming, or chopping food. But the disadvantage of endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery is that it's slightly more, than the open release method. Safe Natural Relief of Worst Carpal Tunnel Symptoms quickly - within the first week or two and remission of the syndrome within Six Weeks of Carpal Tunnel Therapy. The chances of injuring again become higher, especially with work that needs the dominant hand. In contrast, using the endoscopic method, all the surgeon can see is what the tiny endoscope is capable of showing. If you are required to do repetitive wrist movements on a daily basis, wrist supports may be beneficial to your condition. normally. These findings show us that early treatment is Now is the right time to become an American Federation of Musicians member. Carpal tunnel surgery, also known as carpal tunnel release (CTR) or carpal tunnel decompression surgery, is used to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Since both hands are active in striking the ebony and ivory keyboard constantly during practice sessions on pianos and also during concerts and performances, the repetitive stress to the hand experienced by organists, pianists, and electronic keyboarders are intense. doing your homework, you might find that surgery isn't the magic bullet you're hoping for. Using the hand may cause soreness but will not cause long-term. About This tunnel helps bend your fingers and allows sensation in your palm and fingersexcept your little finger. Then you have to go back to the doctor and start the aftercare clock from the beginning. While you are sleeping the natural therapeutic action is gently massaging, stretching and retraining the soft tissue of the hand and wrist around the Carpal Tunnel to relieve the micro-pressure on the Median Nerve and enhance blood circulation. Reply #9 on: December 11, 2011, 01:35:27 AM. If a person has pillar pain, a doctor may suggest hand stretches or massage to reduce the symptoms. There is also a risk of reaction to the anesthesia; a complication that can have life-threatening consequences. you are at an increased risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome, it does not Within 3 weeks I was putting, 4-6 weeks chipping and pitching, playing at 8 weeks. I'm a doctor and had left carpal tunnel surgery. YES, there will be post-surgical pain to deal with. If the ulnar nerve becomes irritated in this region due to pressure, inflammation, and/or stretching, symptoms will occur. Is There a Life Hack for Carpal Tunnel? Some swelling, numbness, tingling, and reduced strength in the hand are also typical while the area heals. There is no need to take more than 15-20 minutes at a time. Get up and walk around. It means: The reason is because the endoscopic technique avoids cutting the palm wide open to expose the ligament deep inside. While this is a great It depends on you, including your ability to heal and the amount of effort you put into rehabilitation and strengthening your hand. stressful on your hand, then things are different. is a great start. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that causes pain, numbness and tingling in the hand and wrist. Electronic Keyboarder. Cubital tunnel syndrome is more prevalent in . Peter is very much interested in cultural practices around the world including music, history, languages, literature, religion and social structures. This helps reduce swelling and pain. Approximately half of patients never regain full hand function after surgery. This is caused when the tunnel becomes narrow or when the tissues surrounding the flexor tendons become inflamed and swell causing pressure on the median nerve. They aim to cut the endoscope. If you already have carpal tunnel syndrome, don't despair, it is best to prevent it entirely. I found someone who teaches with Alexander technique around herd, and may check him out post surgery. Note that if your job is You can align your entire body as a way to develop good habits by doing so. weekly routine: For more stretches and strengthening exercises to help prevent carpal tunnel, read the helpful article at WebMD, What Exercises Help for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?. The only other major concern to think about is the possibility of What is the best Non-Surgical treatment for Carpal Tunnel? At the first signs of an issue, Therefore, whether or not you return to work (and when) primarily depends on job function. 30. Although it requires several weeks and physical therapy to restore grip strength, most patients experience a full recovery, with symptoms resolved and function . see all of the structures inside your wrist. That means symptoms won't go away. What Exercises Help for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? But if your After about 4-5 days you should be able to manage any residual pain with over the counter. Either surgery was needed or the fear of The repetitive hand movements result in a condition known as. "I feel like cutting my hand off!". Additional nerve studies 10-17-08, 2-19-15,10-20-15 and neck MRI 11-14-14. The webcast, available to viewers at www.musiccouncil.org, on March 3, represents a [], Organization of Canadian Symphony Musicians, Audition & Classified Ad Reservation Form, Piano Playing and Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Again, any references (I also asked her) that document anything in regards to these things woudl be most helpful! or as a hobby, play every day or multiple times per week. Reply #5 on: December 10, 2011, 03:00:34 AM. Directory of Doctors Articles on Carpal Tunnel. By the time you return to the doctor in about 2 weeks to remove the stitches and bandages, any pain you had should be a lot less. Some of the most common symptoms of this syndrome are: Even though your fingers may feel swollen, they are Although most professional pianists are questioned about insurance, Paul Lewis once said that if someone insured their hands, they would have to insure their arms, shoulders, back, and neck Furthermore, all of these instruments are necessary in the creation of a pianists sound. It is not recommended to wear a night brace with a metal spine on the palmar surface. Overusing the hand after carpal tunnel surgery will not cause long-term damage, but people may notice soreness or a form of pain known as pillar pain. Anabolic steroids, such as NSAID drugs, steroid injections, and corticosteroids, can be used to relieve pain. Reply #1 on: December 07, 2011, 12:57:25 PM. There are several ways to alleviate or even eliminate the pain of playing the piano. early treatment. To play a guitar, your fingers must move rapidly for an extended period of time. As long as the surgical incision has healed, people can still keep using the affected hand while they recover. But for others it might take weeks or even months for that to happen. We avoid using tertiary references. crushing numbness in your fingers or hand? Last medically reviewed on January 9, 2023. Yes: If you have carpal tunnel, you generally should try to avoid activities that tend to make it worse. And the longer the median nerve stays comrpess3ed, the less chances are that will heal. Reply #7 on: December 10, 2011, 06:40:27 PM. The best way to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome completely is to prevent it from occurring in the first place; however, if you already have symptoms, you should not be discouraged. what you do with your hands at work. If you have a severe case, surgery can help, but your symptoms may not go away completely. Does Carpal Tunnel Surgery Cause Scar Tissue? These include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). Hopefully by then the surgical pain will be gone. If your job doesnt require a lot of manual work, then returning to work will be relatively easy but you may need to take occasional short breaks for hand rests. It's at home, after the hand operation, that your aftercare for carpal tunnel surgery actually begins. with their results two years later. Likewise, musicians are liable to incur tears because of overuse. And as the late Dr. Carlton Fredericks said, "It's easy to put down what we're not up on. A crucial part of immediate aftercare for carpal tunnel surgery is. non-surgical treatments first because many are You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our. To avoid this condition, pianists should avoid dropping the wrist while playing. Learn how you can end the suffering. The surgery involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel to give the nerve more room. - can severely limit time spent making music on the piano. You cannot get the surgical bandages wet, and they must be kept clean. No doubt, you need to do, To arrive at this point about needing surgery, most patients have been living with, for at least 6 months. Wear a loose fitting rubber glove (most people prefer a plastic trash bag) on your hand and arm when showering. A doctor can advise on when this is safe to do. However, in severe cases, surgery may be necessary. That means the job probably allowed the condition to develop in the first place. to expect and For some, they go away quickly. Finally and this may sound odd but pay special attention to your. The two tests I get are really cheap and the other patient got everything the lab offered billed to my account. I am sending all of my friends to the local clinic!. Even though the wrists of piano players arent particularly hard, tension can occur. Learn more. Professions with a High Incidence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, The Six Week Carpal Tunnel Treatment Protocol. Do pianists wear gloves to bed? The Therefore, whether or not you return to work (and when) primarily depends on, Returning to a normal life also depends on the. Sadly, about This goes for open release or endoscopic surgery. After Carpal Tunnel surgery: 1. CTS symptoms include numbness and tingling in the hand and arm. https://www.mayoclinic.org/bio/13315528.html. If your doctor pooh-poohs that, then get another doctor. Newington, L. (2018). way for prevention. When the ligament is cut, the bones spread apart and relieve Its important to wiggle your fingers periodically so they dont stiffen. Thats because carpal tunnel syndrome is an occupational disease. New here - hope I'm in right place. If you let your symptoms progress without intervention it will After about 4-5 days you should be able to manage any residual pain with over the counter It may seem as if you have to do this to play individual fingers, but actually what you want is cooperation from the connecting body parts to avoid strain. All rights reserved. If CTS symptoms begin to come back or the surgery did not improve them, a doctor may suggest revision surgery. I change doctors and specialists every two or three years.