G56.02 Carpal tunnel syndrome, left upper limb

ICD10CM code

#### Name of the Condition
- Carpal tunnel syndrome, left upper limb
- CTS, Carpal tunnel, Median nerve compression in left wrist

#### Summary
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition characterized by the compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This leads to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm, particularly affecting the left upper limb when specifically localized.

#### Causes
- Repetitive hand or wrist motions (e.g., typing or assembly line work)
- Wrist anatomy
- Health conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid gland imbalance

#### Risk Factors
- Gender: Women are more likely to develop CTS.
- Occupation: Jobs that involve repetitive hand and wrist activities.
- Obesity
- Pregnancy: Fluid retention can increase pressure on the carpal tunnel.
- Hereditary factors

#### Symptoms
- Tingling or numbness in fingers or hand, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
- Weakness in hand muscles.
- Discomfort or pain radiating up the forearm.

#### Diagnosis
- Physical examination focusing on sensation, strength, and range of motion.
- Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG).
- Ultrasound of the wrist.
- X-rays to rule out arthritis or other conditions.

#### Treatment Options
- Wrist splinting to alleviate nighttime symptoms.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation.
- Corticosteroid injections to decrease swelling.
- Surgery (carpal tunnel release) to alleviate pressure on the median nerve.

#### Prognosis and Follow-Up
- With early treatment, symptoms can often be relieved without surgery.
- Regular follow-up to monitor progress and adjust treatments as needed.
- Post-surgical outlook is generally favorable, but recovery can take several weeks.

#### Complications
- Permanent nerve damage and muscle weakness if left untreated.
- Persistent numbness or pain, even after treatment.

#### Lifestyle & Prevention
- Ergonomic adjustments at work and adequate wrist support.
- Regular breaks and stretching exercises for the wrist.
- Maintaining a healthy weight and controlling underlying health conditions like diabetes.

#### When to Seek Professional Help
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand that persists.
- Symptoms that interfere with sleep or daily activities.
- Loss of coordination or grip strength in the hands.

#### Additional Resources
- [American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons](https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/)
- [National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke](https://www.ninds.nih.gov/)
- [Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Support Groups](https://www.carpal-tunnel.net/)

#### Tips for Medical Coders
- Ensure proper laterality, specifying left limb in documentation.
- Verify associated conditions that might be documented, such as rheumatoid arthritis, which might affect coding.
- Double-check for any mention of prior surgical interventions or chronicity.

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