Well, OK

I have posted this story a few times over the years (10+), but this post suggests it bears repeating.

Electrodiagnostic tests prove 'technically' that I have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in both wrists. My wise Rheumatologist performed a simple, logical test which clearly proved that I indeed had 'double-crush' TOS. This means Carpal Tunnel surgery would be a useless and very BAD idea.

The test was as follows:

1.) The Dr. injected cortisone in one of my wrists which did NOT result in any significant improvement.

2.) A few weeks later, the Dr. injected cortisone in the shoulder of the same arm. This resulted in a SIGNIFICANT, albeit temporary, improvement in my wrist.

Obviously, the impingement which diagnostically indicated CTS, was in my SHOULDER and NOT in my wrist.

I am always astounded at the number of TOS patients are put through unwarrented surgeries in the wrist and/or elbow before it is determined that the TOS is the culpret.

No surgery should be undertaken lightly. TOS patients are especially vulnerable to problems because CRPS/RSD is a real threat. In addition, regarding TOS surgery itself..if there is no cervical rib, or other obvious anomoly, the success rate is not great.

If scar tissue is the cause of TOS, surgery is extremely difficult to navigate without jepordizing nerves and arteries. In addition, scar tissue will often return with a vengence, setting up a cycle of more and more hazerdous future surgeries.

My theory is that the shortage of TOS specialists has something to do with the low success rate of TOS surgeries. This impacts the 'reputation' of the surgeon and also increases the potential of lawsuits for 'failed' surgery...not a pleasant prospect.

Ask your physician about trying the 'cortisone' test. If he/she is not interested, find someone who will be. SOME surgeons will suggest surgery even if it is not in the best interest of the patient. A Rhuematologist really must be consulted anyway. They can rule out several other conditions which are so frequently mimiced by TOS.

Take Care,
Anne