Northwestern Medicine - Empower Health

Tingly, Numb, and Sore NO MORE THE DISCOMFORT THAT ACCOMPANIES CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME IS NO MATCH FOR A MINIMALLY INVASIVE PROCEDURE THAT CAN BE PERFORMED LOCALLY. WHEN THE MEDIAN nerve that runs through the wrist becomes compressed due to damage, inflammation, or other health issues, a feeling frequently described as "pins and needles" often follows. "Carpal tunnel pain is the most common concern I hear from patients," says Ryan Kenny, DO, orthopedic hand surgeon on staff with KishHealth System, now part of Northwestern Medicine. "A lot of people suffer through, thinking the pain is normal. Thankfully, we have a way to help." DO LESS TO DO MORE Patients who do not respond to conservative treatments, such as over-the-counter pain medications and bracing, may be candidates for endoscopic carpal tunnel release. "For nearly two years, I've been using a MicroAire endoscopic system to carefully access and cut the transverse carpal ligament," Dr. Kenny says. "This eases the tension on the median nerve, greatly reducing pain for many." For this amazingly effective treatment advancement, Dr. Kenny makes a single incision at the wrist to carefully insert the device, a camera with a light source and a retractable blade, to examine the compressed nerve. After the surgeon ensures the ligament is accessible, the blade is extended and the ligament is cut to complete the release. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, patients recover more quickly than they do following a traditional open surgery that would involve cutting into the palm to access the ligament. "Stitches come out about two weeks after surgery," Dr. Kenny says. "Most patients don't need physical therapy and can return to normal activity as soon as the surgical site pain subsides." Visit kishfindadoctor.org and use the "Find a Doctor" tool to locate an orthopedic specialist near you. "Most patients don't need physical therapy and can return to normal activity as soon as the surgical site pain subsides." —Ryan Kenny, DO 2 CANCER CENTER OUR MISSION WELLNESS CLASSES AND PROGRAMS Our Cancer Center provides patients and families with education, support, and resources to deal with the many challenges presented by cancer. Generous donor support helps underwrite the cost of these programs. If you are interested in making a donation to improve the quality of life for those dealing with cancer, please contact the KishHealth System Foundation at 815.748.9954 or visit kishhealthfoundation.org. We are the cornerstone of healthcare for the communities we serve—the first choice for service, comfort, and safety. Look for a list of featured classes and programs in the Wellness Programs section toward the back of this issue. Most are free and require registration. Classes with low enrollment are generally canceled three days prior to the start date. Please register early. Register online at kishprograms.org. THANK YOU TO OUR 2016 FORMAL AFFAIR SPONSORS: Power Construction Co. LLC - Power Wellness, Edward Jones - Matt Myre and Mark Hilde

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