Are you experiencing pain from Gunyon's Canal Syndrome? Our Dallas Gunyon's Canal Syndrome Treatment options may be the solution.
Dr. Pedro Loredo is a hand specialist serving the Dallas and Fort Worth, TX area. Call today to learn about our Guyon's Canal Syndrome treatment options.
What is Guyon’s Canal Syndrome?
The Guyon canal is a narrow passageway in the outer portion of the wrist through which the ulnar artery and ulnar nerve pass into the hand. When the ulnar nerve is compressed within this area it can cause numbness, tingling, and pain which is associated with Guyon’s Canal Syndrome (also called Ulnar Nerve Entrapment or Handlebar Palsy).
What Are the Symptoms of Guyon’s Canal Syndrome?
Symptoms of Guyon’s Canal Syndrome may include the following:
- Tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation in the ring and little fingers
- Loss of sensation or numbness in the ring and little fingers
- Burning pain in the wrist or hand
- Muscle weakness or loss of motor function in the ring and little fingers
Dr. Loredo’s Approach to Treating Guyon’s Canal Syndrome
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Depending on the severity of the condition, Dr. Loredo may attempt to treat non-surgically before recommending surgery. Non-surgical treatments include:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) to relieve inflammation and pain
- Steroid injections to reduce swelling and pain
- The use of a splint to support the wrist and affected finger(s)
- Resting and icing the affected area(s)
- Physical therapy
Surgical Treatment Options
In the event that non-surgical treatment is ineffective, Dr. Loredo will opt for minimally-invasive surgery to decompress the ulnar nerve.
What Can I Expect After Surgery?
Dr. Loredo uses the most advanced, minimally-invasive techniques available. Most patients enjoy instantaneous relief from pain with little to no post-operative downtime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes Guyon’s Canal Syndrome?
Guyon’s Canal Syndrome has several causes but there are factors that can put certain people at greater risk of developing it, such as:
- People who perform heavy gripping or repetitive wrist or hand motions for long durations or to extremes
- Avid cyclists (due to the prolonged pressure put on the Guyon canal while riding and holding bicycle handlebars, hence the name Handlebar Palsy)
- Weight lifters and people who operate jackhammers
- People who use crutches
- People who have suffered trauma to the area or fractured the hamate bone
How do I know if I have Guyon’s Canal Syndrome?
Only a doctor can definitively diagnose Guyon’s Canal Syndrome, but if you are experiencing tingling or a “pins and needles” sensation in the ring and little fingers, loss of sensation or numbness in the ring and little fingers, burning pain in the wrist or hand, or muscle weakness or loss of motor function in the ring and little fingers, we recommend seeking seeking the opinion of a medical professional.
Is there anything I can do to prevent Guyon’s Canal Syndrome?
You can do the following to try and prevent or ease symptoms of Guyon’s Canal Syndrome:
- Avoid heavy gripping or repetitive motions with your wrist
- Avoid resting your wrists and palms against hard surfaces
- Keep your wrists straight as much as possible even during sleep using wrist braces as an aid
- Rest your hands and wrists frequently and perform stretching exercises
Contact the Loredo Hand Care Institute
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with Guyon’s Canal Syndrome or would like to learn more about our practice in the Dallas area, please contact us today.