Latest news with #CTS
Time Business News
2 days ago
- Health
- Time Business News
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Lahore: Expert Solutions for Hand Pain
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects the hands and wrists, causing pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness. The condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. For those who suffer from this debilitating disorder, finding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome treatment in Lahore can make a significant difference in managing and even curing the condition. This article will explore the causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, its symptoms, and the most effective treatment options available in Lahore, providing a comprehensive guide to those looking for relief. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which controls sensations in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, is compressed at the wrist due to pressure. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist, surrounded by bones and ligaments. When inflammation or swelling affects the tendons that pass through this tunnel, it puts pressure on the median nerve, leading to the symptoms associated with CTS. Common causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include repetitive hand movements, such as typing, assembly line work, or frequent use of tools that strain the wrist. Other factors such as genetics, pregnancy, diabetes, and obesity can also contribute to the development of CTS. The symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can vary, but the most common signs include: Numbness or tingling : Particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, which may feel like a 'pins and needles' sensation. : Particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, which may feel like a 'pins and needles' sensation. Pain : Pain may occur in the wrist, hand, or even extend up the arm. It is often more pronounced at night or after prolonged hand use. : Pain may occur in the wrist, hand, or even extend up the arm. It is often more pronounced at night or after prolonged hand use. Weakness : Weakness in the hand can make it difficult to perform tasks such as holding objects or gripping. : Weakness in the hand can make it difficult to perform tasks such as holding objects or gripping. Decreased grip strength: Difficulty holding onto small objects or doing tasks that require fine motor skills, such as writing. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a medical professional in Lahore to discuss your treatment options. Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome requires a detailed medical evaluation. A physician will typically begin with a physical exam, asking about your symptoms and any activities that may have contributed to the condition. They may perform several tests, including: Tinel's Sign Test : Tapping gently on the median nerve at the wrist to see if it elicits a tingling sensation in the fingers. : Tapping gently on the median nerve at the wrist to see if it elicits a tingling sensation in the fingers. Phalen's Maneuver : Holding the wrists in a flexed position for about a minute to see if it triggers symptoms. : Holding the wrists in a flexed position for about a minute to see if it triggers symptoms. Nerve Conduction Studies : An electrophysiological test that measures how well the median nerve is conducting electrical signals. : An electrophysiological test that measures how well the median nerve is conducting electrical signals. Ultrasound or MRI: In some cases, imaging tests may be performed to check for structural issues. Once diagnosed, a physician will recommend the best treatment plan based on the severity of the condition. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can often be managed effectively with a variety of treatments, from non-invasive methods to more aggressive surgical interventions. Depending on the severity of the condition, the following treatment options are available in Lahore: Resting the affected hand and wrist is crucial in the initial stages of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Avoiding activities that strain the wrist, such as typing, using a mouse, or lifting heavy objects, can help alleviate symptoms. This simple change can provide relief to some individuals, especially those whose condition is caused by repetitive use. Wearing a wrist splint is one of the most common non-surgical treatments for CTS. A splint helps to keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve. This is particularly helpful during sleep when symptoms may worsen. Splints are available in pharmacies and can be customized by specialists for maximum comfort and effectiveness. Physical therapy is often recommended for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome to strengthen the muscles of the wrist and hand. A physiotherapist will guide you through exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the tendons, muscles, and ligaments, which can alleviate symptoms and prevent further compression of the median nerve. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce swelling around the median nerve, providing temporary relief from symptoms. For individuals whose CTS is related to their work environment, making ergonomic adjustments can help prevent worsening symptoms. This might include adjusting the height of your desk, using a wrist rest while typing, or using an ergonomic keyboard and mouse. Proper posture while sitting and typing can also play a significant role in reducing strain on the wrist. In cases where non-surgical treatments do not provide relief, or if the symptoms are severe, surgery may be recommended. There are two main types of surgical treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery is the most common surgical intervention for CTS. The procedure involves cutting the ligament that forms the top of the carpal tunnel, which relieves pressure on the median nerve. The surgery can be performed under local anesthesia and can typically be done on an outpatient basis. Recovery time varies, but many patients experience significant relief within a few weeks. There are two primary methods of performing Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: Open Surgery : A small incision is made in the palm of the hand to access the carpal tunnel and release the pressure on the median nerve. : A small incision is made in the palm of the hand to access the carpal tunnel and release the pressure on the median nerve. Endoscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive technique uses small incisions and a camera to guide the surgeon in releasing the pressure on the nerve. Post-surgery, patients are typically advised to rest the hand and wrist and avoid strenuous activities. Physical therapy may be recommended to help restore function and strengthen the wrist. While most patients report significant improvement, full recovery can take several months. Lahore is home to many well-known medical professionals and specialized clinics that provide state-of-the-art care for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Seeking treatment in Lahore offers several benefits: Lahore has a high concentration of skilled orthopedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and neurologists who specialize in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome treatment. These experts are well-versed in the latest techniques and diagnostic tools, ensuring that you receive the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment options. Medical facilities in Lahore are equipped with advanced diagnostic technology, such as nerve conduction studies, high-resolution ultrasound, and MRI scans, ensuring accurate and timely diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Compared to many other countries, healthcare costs in Lahore are relatively affordable. Patients seeking Carpal Tunnel Syndrome treatment can often find high-quality care at a fraction of the cost they might pay abroad. In Lahore, many clinics offer a personalized approach to patient care, tailoring treatment plans to the individual needs of each patient. This approach ensures the best outcomes, as treatment can be customized based on the severity of the condition and the patient's lifestyle. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be a debilitating condition, but with the right treatment, it is highly manageable. Whether you're experiencing mild symptoms or have been suffering for years, seeking treatment in Lahore can provide access to the latest therapies and expert care. Non-surgical treatments, such as rest, splints, physical therapy, and medications, can often provide relief, while surgical options are available for more severe cases. Don't let hand pain disrupt your life — consult a specialist at Orthocenter, an esteemed orthopedic clinic in Lahore, or Dr. Ahmed Shoaib, a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon, for a personalized treatment plan that will help you get back to living pain-free. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
CBC
5 days ago
- Health
- CBC
Drug checking machine reopens in Kitchener despite consumption site closures
A local health centre says their drug checking machine is back in action — despite the province passing legislation that banned similar harm reduction policies in certain areas of Ontario. Sanguen Health Centre said on social media that they received an exemption for their machine that tests illicit drugs for cross-contamination. They said a new drop-in location will be open on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays at 130 Victoria St. S. in Kitchener and testing started on Friday. The centre previously ran the region's consumption and treatment services (CTS) site on Duke Street W. It served Waterloo region residents, using harm reduction and safe supply techniques, from 2019 to 2024. They were closed in April due to the Progressive Conservative government's shift away from CTS sites that allowed drugs on the premises and were too close to schools or daycares. Leigh Wardlaw is the co-ordinator of the drug checking program and said that the exemption for their machine is outside the scope of provincial legislation. "We have our own exemption," she said, adding the drug checking program exemption was granted by Health Canada through the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. "It's been a very eye-opening experience in itself as we didn't know what was in the local drug supply," Wardlaw said. "We only used test strips before and now we're finding all these new things ... so we're able to educate the public on what we're seeing." CTS replaced by HART hubs Homelessness and Addictions Recovery Treatment (HART) hubs replaced CTS sites in Kitchener, Guelph, Hamilton, Thunder Bay, Ottawa and Toronto. Drugs or drug consumption are not permitted on site at the HART hubs. Waterloo region's HART Hub is operated by Community Healthcaring Kitchener-Waterloo and operates on Francis Street. In March, advocates took the province to court over the closure of CTS sites, saying closing the sites violates both the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Constitution, including the right to life, liberty and security of the person. Justice John Callaghan of the Superior Court of Justice granted an injunction until he could make a decision on the Charter challenge, which he said will take more time to decide. That meant the CTS sites could remain open; however, most organizations said they lacked the funding to keep operating. Despite lack of funding and strained resources, Sanguen Health Centre appealed for an exemption from Health Canada in order to continue operating their drug checking machine. Bill 223, the provincial legislation passed that made CTS sites illegal if they were within 200 metres of a school or daycare, does specify that any exemption requires the approval of the provincial Ministry of Health. But Wardlaw said she doesn't expect a legal battle to ensue as a result of the exemption and that the province holds much of the power regardless. "They're essentially the ones that hold the rug," she said. Ema Popovic, spokesperson for the Ontario Ministry of Health, told CBC News in an email that the provincial government's main priority is offering people who struggle with mental health and addiction treatment while "not giving them tools to use illicit drugs." "In the fall, we passed legislation that prohibits any local board of health from applying to participate in the federal governments so-called 'safer supply' programs and any request ... must receive approval from Ontario's Minister of Health," she said. "To be very clear, Sanguen has received no such approval." What is drug checking? In the name of safe supply, the Kitchener CTS site previously offered to check residents' drugs for cross-contamination with other substances that were more likely to facilitate an overdose. Sanguen Health Centre told CBC News that the drug checking machine was now able to operate at their new drop-in location and they received a mobile exemption and will try to create an outreach plan to get the machine on the road to other communities. Sanguen's drug checking program uses a Raman Spectroscopy to identify substances in minutes. Since 2023, Sanguen says they've been able to test thousands of substances including fentanyl, methamphetamines, crack/cocaine, MDMA and ketamine. Julie Kalbfleisch, director of Sanguen Health Centre, told CBC News in an email that funding for the drug checking program through Sanguen was part of a pilot project. Funding ran out at the end of last year but they "have enough funding to support the program until the fall." CBC News reached out to Health Canada about whether the drug-checking machine could receive federal funding but did not receive a comment. Kalbfleisch said Sanguen is currently seeking "other funding opportunities" and there are grant applications in the works. She added Sanguen is "grateful for the exemption from the federal government for this life-saving work" and that they "do not anticipate provincial backlash."
Forbes
28-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Navigating Change In Non-Emergency Medical Transportation
Miguel McInnis is the President and CEO of Coordinated Transportation Solutions (CTS). For years, the healthcare industry has been grappling with what to do about the Baby Boomer generation, currently around 73 million strong. From nursing shortages to exploding costs, professionals have been consistently seeking ways to deal with this aging population, who by 2030 will all be at least 65 years old. Meanwhile, the industry is at a crossroads as technological transformation, policy shifts and evolving customer expectations converge. I particularly see the non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT), which transports patients when they're not in emergency situations, as helping to transform the industry's future. But NEMT providers must adapt to the emerging "new normal," leveraging technology, navigating policy shifts and enhancing customer experience in order to remain competitive. I believe a major disruptor for the NEMT industry is the proposed cuts to Medicaid, which could reduce the number of eligible recipients and, in turn, decrease the demand for trips to medical providers. We could also see a reversal in Medicare Advantage and Special Needs plans offering non-medical transportation. This benefit has increasingly been offered over the last several years due to incentives provided by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), but the Value-Based Insurance Design (VBID) model, devised to foster innovation and reduce inequities and disparities, is set to sunset at the end of 2025. If transportation benefits are scaled back, NEMT companies will need to develop innovative strategies to sustain service levels while adapting to new financial constraints. I think diversification could be the key to addressing these ramifications. By expanding offerings, forming strategic partnerships with health plans and integrating care coordination efforts, NEMT businesses can sustain their growth despite regulatory challenges. There is no doubt that technology has done wonders for the healthcare industry and made it easier for patients to access their providers. The Covid-19 pandemic led to a boom in the use of telemedicine, so by 2021, over 86% of doctors were using it to deliver care in lieu of in-person visits. And the number of patients taking advantage of virtual visits is only going to increase. As broadband technology becomes more affordable and seniors become more comfortable using it, the likelihood of patients taking trips to their doctors' offices is going to likely decrease. As a result, the NEMT industry will need to make further adjustments to its business model to address the reduction in demand for trips. Artificial intelligence (AI) will likely play a huge role in how we do business in the future, and there are so many ways this technology can support our work. As one example, AI can help streamline internal call center activities by improving efficiency in trip planning. Improvements to the technology can also make trip planning effective by reducing fuel and overall operating costs. Additionally, AI technology can be used for virtual agents, which are becoming advanced enough to both mimic a human voice and provide necessary information to customers in real time. This can go a long way toward reducing cost, increasing our efficiency and seamlessly making services available 24/7. Beyond technology, NEMT providers are often in the unique position to get to know their customers over time, so we can offer an experience that is tailored to the needs of everyone. If a customer speaks a certain language, we can pair them with a driver who also speaks that language. If someone has a disability and needs help getting downstairs or access to a special van to accommodate a wheelchair, we can provide that extra attention. Making our services more customizable and consistent in various ways can help NEMT companies navigate the new landscape currently being created. Similarly, making it easier to engage with your services can also boost customer experience. Some customers will feel comfortable booking a trip using a mobile application. Others would prefer to speak to someone on the phone. When people are unwell, the last thing they want is added inconvenience. By prioritizing their needs and making the experience as seamless as possible, NEMT providers can build a meaningful connection that enhances their satisfaction. As the NEMT industry navigates the current inflection points, there will inevitably be a balancing act required of us. Despite the role technology will play in evolving the NEMT business going forward, we still can't lose sight of what makes us special to our customers—the human connection we offer. As we proactively adapt to changes in our industry with agility, we will still give customers the service that they've come to depend on us for. Customers will still want to know that they can rely on us to pick them up in the vehicles they prefer, help them downstairs when needed, communicate with them most effectively and give them the overall experience of concern and comfort that they deserve. The business inflection points may change how we operate, but they won't change our purpose. Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
Irish Independent
28-05-2025
- Health
- Irish Independent
Ask the doctor: I have pins and needles in my fingers and jawline. What could cause this?
Dr Grant replies: Numbness and tingling is referred to as paresthesias and is generally not something to worry about unless it becomes persistent and progresses to cause other symptoms such as pain, sensory loss, or weakness involving the shoulder, arm, or hand. The most common reason for these type of complaints is compression or entrapment of a nerve that, in its mildest form, causes intermittent symptoms. For example, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common mononeuropathy that causes paresthesias in the hand, when the wrist is flexed as the median nerve is compressed in the carpal tunnel of the wrist. Numbness and tingling occur in the thumb, index, middle and half of the ring finger as these are the regions supplied by the median nerve. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are usually worse at night. A radiculopathy is commonly called a pinched root, that occurs where the nerve root exits the spine, typically at the neck and lower back. Cervical radiculopathy is a common cause of both acute and chronic neck pain. Trigeminal neuralgia is common and causes typically one-sided (unilateral) sudden, severe shooting pain in the jaw, teeth or gums. Always consider the possibility of dental infection, impacted wisdom teeth or gum disease. Therefore, a trip to the dentist might be a good idea! There are many possible causes of radiculopathy. Keeping a diary of your symptoms, including the onset, duration, severity, associated symptoms (if any), what brings it on and what may relieve it, can be very helpful in trying to get to a diagnosis. Your age, gender (women are more commonly affected), family history and personal medical history are all important factors. A routine set of blood tests including vitamin B12, thyroid function tests and diabetes testing should be considered. It is unlikely that your two complaints are related, as the anatomy of the nerve supply is different. As you seem to think a certain exercise in the gym involving weight lifting brought on your symptoms, clearly you should stop doing that particular exercise for now and wait to see if your symptoms resolve over time. One of the common questions GPs get asked when patients present with paresthesias is, could this be Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? In general, MS causes vision problems, difficulty walking or speaking correctly, cognitive difficulties, numbness and tingling, muscle weakness, fatigue and other problems. MS is an auto-immune disease when the immune system attacks and damages nerve cells and their connections in the brain and spinal cord. Working with your doctor over time will determine if referral to a consultant neurologist is appropriate or necessary. Features suggestive of MS that are highly characteristic of the disease include: 1. Typical age of onset between 15 and 45 years 2. Relapses and remissions ADVERTISEMENT 3. Optic neuritis causing pain on eye movements or temporary loss of vision 4. Fatigue 5. Lhermitte's sign, which is a sudden buzzing sensation like an electric shock that run down the back of your neck and spine and may radiate into an arm/leg. It is usually triggered by bending or flexing your head forward towards your chest. It generally lasts a couple of seconds but can be very intense. 6. Internuclear ophthalmoplegia causing double vision and nystagmus, which is involuntary side-to-side rapid eye movements that last only a few seconds. 7. Uhthoff's phenomenon, which is short-lived (less than 24 hours), of worsening of symptoms in response to an increase in core body temperature. The classic example is motor symptoms or difficulty moving your arms/legs while trying to get out of a hot bath. Dr Jennifer Grant is a GP with Beacon HealthCheck
Vancouver Sun
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Vancouver Sun
Crustacean crazy: 5 things to know about Vancouver's Spot Prawn Festival
When: May 25, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: Fishermen's Wharf in False Creek, Vancouver Info: 'When it started, in 2006, spot prawns, and the festival, weren't very popular at all,' said Johnny Bridge, president of festival co-presenter Chefs' Table Society (CTS) of B.C. The tide turned in 2009, he says, when the event began selling out. 'Now everybody knows what spot prawns are, so much so that the Vancouver populace almost over-purchases, which has made them more expensive.' Discover the best of B.C.'s recipes, restaurants and wine. By signing up you consent to receive the above newsletter from Postmedia Network Inc. A welcome email is on its way. If you don't see it, please check your junk folder. The next issue of West Coast Table will soon be in your inbox. Please try again Interested in more newsletters? Browse here. 'The local bottom-feeding bug of the ocean,' as Bridge puts it, is the largest shrimp species in B.C. waters and can grow up to more than 20 cm. They are found primarily along the Pacific Coast, from Alaska to Southern California, as well as in the Sea of Japan and Korea Strait. During the third year of their four-year life cycle, they transition from males to females, which makes them protandrous hermaphrodites. Octopuses love them. Stocks are carefully managed and fishing season limited to prevent overfishing. Ticketed experiences include Spot Prawn Bisque by Chefs' Table Society and Organic Ocean ($10 per serving + taxes) and a brunch experience (19+ years, $79 per person + taxes, two seatings, 11:30 a.m. — 1 p.m. or 1:30—3 p.m.). Brunch chefs include Adam Middleton of ARC Restaurant & Bar, Antonio Martin of Haven Kitchen + Bar, Johnny Jang of Lift Bar Grill View, and Robert Lee of Glowbal. Festival attendees can also buy fresh B.C. spot prawns directly from local fishers. Other B.C. chefs, including Ned Bell of Poplar Grove Winery, Jonah Joffe of Bar Bravo, Welbert Choi of , and Sean Murray of Pan Pacific Hotel, offer demos with tips and techniques for cooking with B.C. Spot Prawns. Co-presenters CTS and the Pacific Prawn Fishermen's Association (PPFA) hold the festival not just to celebrate a source of tasty protein but also the work of the association. 'The fishery has been around since 1914, but since the formation of the PPFA it's been much more organized,' said Katie Lindsay, marketing director for PPFA. 'We've been able to structure the fishery to build new markets and ensure sustainability behind our stock assessments.' The fishery has also become more competitive in terms of the market, the price and demand, and also fishing areas. 'There's a lot more closed areas for sustainability, for rockfish conservation areas, and also coral reef protection. So that limits the amount of fishing areas.' Still, the industry is healthy, Lindsay says. 'There are challenges, like the ongoing threat to marine protected areas, climate change, and increased predation from sea otters. But in terms of actual fishing and sustainability, it's in a great place.' 'It's something that a lot of restaurants in Vancouver will feature,' notes Bridge. 'All the chefs that I know will make sure that they have their orders in by the beginning of May. The city seems to love it. Chefs like to cook it. It's a sustainable protein, which is rare these days.' Along with the festival in False Creek, Steveston hosts its annual spot prawn and seafood celebration with events until June 15, including Spot Prawn Day on June 7. is bringing back Park 'n Prawn, its drive-up live B.C. spot prawn pickup program. Restaurants going crustacean crazy include Fanny Bay Oyster Bar and Shellfish Market, B House, Loam Bistor, Riley's, Glowbal, Black and Blue, Italian Kitchen, Coast, and C|Prime. And for that slice of the Lower Mainland demographic that loves both seafood and wrestling, Boom! Pro Wrestling presents Spot Prawn Season May 31 on the 3rd floor of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 179 at 2205 Commercial Dr.
