Possible CTS
I was hoping for some advice on the key factors in determine actual CTS. I was diagnosed with CTS around 10 years ago. I had a cortisone injection in my right wrist. It never really went away completely but the symptoms did calm down for a short while, so I just got on with it.
Now however, I have had to return to my GP as the condition has intensified greatly. I was diagnosed again with possible CTS after my GP googled the symptoms and did the two basic tests. I also had a blood test which has just come back negative. I have done your online questionnaire and it was only a 46 and 50% chance that it is CTS.
My main problem is with gripping. I haven't lost any muscle or strength but it is very painful to hold anything...I am in pain spreading my toast in the morning and it doesn't get any better throughout the day. It is more painful in my right hand but I also get it in the left side. I am also experiencing frequent cramp in only my right hand little finger. Is this CTS? I have discomfort in my back, neck and arms but the GP dismissed this and only wanted to focus on my hand.
Any help will be much appreciated.
From that description I would think the questionnaire result is about right - roughly a 50/50 chance of it being CTS, at least in part. As it's not a classical case you need some nerve conduction studies doing to try and clarify the diagnosis - or maybe ultrasound imaging if that is more readily avaialable and the appropriate expertise is there. JB