Rheumatoid arthritis and carpal tunnel

I have rheumatoid arthritis and have developed carpal tunnel syndrome. My surgeon says surgery is the only way to make the symptoms go away. Any suggestions?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a known complication of rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms do vary and so do the treatments. There are several treatments for the disorder including rest, splints, acupuncture, ultrasound,  pain control and surgery.

Since you have rheumatoid arthritis, I would not recommend surgery. Plus, the surgery does not cure the problem and recurrence of symptoms is common.

The best therapy I can suggest is to wear a splint at night and exercise the wrist and hand during the day. The longer you stay away from orthopedic surgeons, the better the quality of your life will be.