In the current digital world, our habits and daily work routines profoundly impact our health. Hand discomfort has become increasingly common, but how do you distinguish if it’s just temporary strain or a more serious injury, like carpal tunnel syndrome?
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, board-certified orthopedic specialist Dr. Andrew Staiger provides excellent care for his patients. He is an expert in hand and upper extremity surgery and prioritizes exploring non-operative strategies with patients before resorting to surgical procedures. Dr. Staiger is committed to helping patients understand their diagnosis and get back to doing the things they love, without pain.
First things first, what exactly is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed within the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist made of tendons, ligaments, and bones. While the exact cause is often idiopathic (meaning it arises spontaneously, without a known cause), it typically happens due to thickening along the tendons that share this finite space. As these tendons thicken, the nerve gets trapped or pinched, leading to characteristic symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain.
While many people associate CTS with activities like keyboarding or repetitive hand movements, studies have shown that overuse doesn’t necessarily cause the condition directly. Instead, it often occurs in the general population, with some individuals being more predisposed to developing it than others. Swelling, inflammation, underlying medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes, or acute injuries can also contribute to the compression and development of CTS.
Affecting an estimated 1 to 5 percent of adults, CTS is notably more prevalent in females than males, with a 3:1 ratio.
But what happens if you aren’t part of that group and debilitating hand pain’s got you down?
Well, it could be a phenomenon known as scroll fatigue brought on by excessive smartphone use. Research indicates that prolonged smartphone use forces wrists into bent positions, stressing thumb and finger tendons. This sustained strain can, over time, lead to discomfort in the muscles, tendons, and joints of the hand, wrists, and arms.
Aching or soreness in the wrist, thumb, or fingers
Tingling or slight numbness following extended phone use
Cramping or stiffness in the hands
Mild wrist or hand discomfort that improves with rest
Tightness in the forearm or base of the thumb
Studies have correlated increased phone usage with pain in the wrist, causing inflammation. However, it doesn’t directly cause carpal tunnel syndrome. While scroll fatigue may not initially cause CTS, it’s a risk factor worth paying attention to before it progresses.
How To Tell The Difference Between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Scroll Fatigue
Recognizing the difference between everyday irritation and CTS starts with understanding the warning signs.
Common indicators of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Tingling or numbness in your fingers (especially fingertips)
Pins-and-needles sensation
Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip items or make a fist
Swelling and stiffness in the wrist and palm
Symptoms worsening at night or when hands are held in a flexed position for long periods
While anyone can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, research suggests certain professions face a higher likelihood due to the repetitive hand and wrist movements inherent in their daily tasks. CTS is most commonly observed in individuals working in:
Office and tech jobs
Construction and trades
Factory and assembly lines
Healthcare professionals
Artists and musicians
Ultimately, if your pain becomes too severe to manage on your own, you should see your local hand specialist to determine the best course of action.
Carpal Tunnel Procedures at St. Cloud Surgical Center
If you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome by a hand specialist, surgery may be a necessary step, especially if conservative methods prove insufficient. While surgery may feel daunting, if left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage to the median nerve.
In severe cases where surgery is necessary, Dr. Staiger and the hand surgeons at St. Cloud Surgical Center will perform a procedure known as carpal tunnel release. This is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States and has an impressive success rate of 98% or better.
The surgical procedure involves severing a ligament pressing on the median nerve to reduce pressure. The procedure takes 15-30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia, requiring no overnight stay.
Recovery following carpal tunnel release is generally a smooth process. Most patients can use their fingers almost immediately and can resume light activities within a week or two. Over several weeks, grip strength returns and the complete healing process is finished after a few months. Physical therapy and rest can help speed up the healing process as well. While recurrence is possible, it is not common, affecting only about 5% of patients, usually 10 or 15 years later.
Whether it’s carpal tunnel syndrome or just too much scrolling, it’s important to listen to your body. Early symptoms may seem like no big deal, but if left untreated they can lead to something more serious over time. Fortunately, with simple habit changes and early treatment, most people find relief. When needed, surgery often provides beneficial and lasting results.
If numbness, tingling, or pain is consistently interfering with your daily life, it may be time to see a specialist. Our team at St. Cloud Surgical Center is dedicated to finding the right solution for you. With expert care and a strong desire to see patients improve, your hands are in good hands.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we pride ourselves on being leaders in innovation. Everything we do is state-of-the-art, from our services to the technology we use. And no one exemplifies that better than Dr. Eric Green, a veteran orthopedic surgeon whose commitment to forward-thinking care has helped shape the future of joint replacement surgery. With over three decades of experience and a reputation for precision, Dr. Green has played a critical role in developing our orthopedic surgery offerings at the center, particularly with his advocacy of the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution, a game-changing technology for total and partial knee replacements.
We sat down with Dr. Green to get the inside scoop on how robotic technology is transforming orthopedic surgery, why accuracy matters more than ever, and what it means for patients entering the operating room today.
A NEW ERA OF KNEE REPLACEMENT
St. Cloud Surgical Center has been a leader in orthopedic surgery since the early 2000s. Over the years, we’ve invested heavily in technology, training, and talent to make our Knee Replacement Program a benchmark for others to follow. Part of that commitment means staying ahead of the curve, and sometimes, helping shape the curve entirely.
A little over five years ago, Dr. Green approached our leadership team with an idea to bring in a new robotic device called the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution for total knee replacements. At the time, this technology was still in development, but Dr. Green had a unique advantage. He was one of only six orthopedic surgeons selected by Johnson & Johnson to help develop the VELYS™ system from the ground up. With his vision and drive, St. Cloud Surgical Center became one of the first facilities in the world to adopt the platform in 2022.
“The idea is to take the guesswork out of surgery,” Dr. Green explains. “We wanted a system that could consistently hit the surgical plan with unbelievable accuracy. And that’s exactly what VELYS™ does.”
So, what makes VELYS™ different?
At its core, VELYS™ uses an advanced optical camera that captures 300 images per second. This high-speed system tracks every tiny movement—from the patient’s smallest muscle twitch to their breathing and heartbeat—in real time.
“The system adapts in real time,” says Dr. Green. “It’s seamless. It allows us to operate with a level of precision we couldn’t achieve manually. With VELYS, we’re talking about 0.1 millimeters, 0.1 degrees.”
And let’s be clear: VELYS™ doesn’t replace surgeons like Dr. Green. It enhances their ability to execute an already solid plan with unmatched accuracy, offering real-time data and micro-adjustments to keep everything on track. For partial knee replacements, where preserving as much of the natural joint as possible is key, that precision matters more than ever.
In Dr. Green’s words, “It allows me to be more precise, more consistent. It helps me do what I already do well, just better.”
VELYS™ AND THE FUTURE OF PARTIAL KNEE REPLACEMENT
As our experience with the VELYS™ Robotic-Assist Solution grew, so did its potential. After proving itself in total knee replacements, it was a natural next step to introduce VELYS™ to the world of partial knee replacements.
The partial knee replacement surgical procedure allows your surgeon to access, remove, and accurately replace only the damaged surface of your knee, leaving your healthy bone intact.
The procedure typically follows these steps:
An incision is made to expose the joint.
The damaged area is reshaped to fit the implant components.
Trial components are temporarily placed to ensure proper alignment.
Once alignment is confirmed, the final implants are secured.
The incision is closed, and the recovery process begins.
What makes this procedure even more effective with VELYS™ is its ability to deliver robotic precision without needing a preoperative CT scan to map the surgical plan. That’s a big deal. Skipping the scan means less radiation, fewer appointments, and significant cost savings, all without compromising precision. The surgical plan is created in real time in the operating room using the system’s built-in camera and data tracking.
By removing the CT scan requirement, VELYS™ makes robotic-assisted surgery more accessible. While Minnesota requires insurance to cover pre-op scans, many states don’t, meaning patients elsewhere could be stuck with an unexpected bill. With VELYS™, more patients—regardless of insurance or geography—can access advanced, robotic-assisted surgery in a cost-effective outpatient setting.
VELYS™ is helping us bring smarter, more affordable partial knee replacements to more patients, and that’s a win all around.
LOOKING AHEAD: ROBOTICS AS THE NEW STANDARD
While Robotic-assisted surgery may make you feel a bit uneasy, it’s happening and it’s here. And if you ask Dr. Eric Green, it won’t be long before it’s standard practice everywhere because it’s just a better way of doing things.
“The accuracy, the efficiency, the outcomes. It all points to this becoming the norm,” says Dr. Green.
At St. Cloud Surgical Center, we’re choosing to set the standard so as not to be left behind. As one of the first outpatient centers in the country, we’ve always prided ourselves on our ability to provide cutting-edge, accessible care to our patients. Using robotics like VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution is just one way we do that.
If you, or someone you love, has ever suffered from back pain, you know how debilitating it can be. Chronic back pain is not something that is here one day and gone the next. It is a constant setback that takes a physical, emotional, and mental toll on a person, significantly hindering daily activities such as work and enjoying time with family.
While surgery is often not the first choice, when it comes to chronic back pain, it’s sometimes the only thing that will result in a permanent fix. Traditional spine surgery used to mean long recoveries with hospital stays and body casts, but thanks to advancements in medical technology, that’s not the case.
Here at St. Cloud Surgical Center, we have a team of surgeons who have pioneered minimally invasive spine surgery (MISS). This procedure offers effective relief with fewer drawbacks than traditional open surgeries and exists to help you return to a pain-free life!
UNDERSTANDING MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY (MISS)
Minimally invasive spine surgery is becoming a top choice for spine surgery because it involves performing spinal procedures through small incisions, utilizing specialized instruments and imaging techniques. This approach contrasts with traditional open surgery, which requires larger incisions and can result in more significant muscle and tissue disruption.
Minimally invasive spine surgery boasts many benefits, including:
Faster Recovery Times
Better Cosmetic Results
Less Blood Loss
Reduced Risk of Infection
Reduced Risk of Postoperative Pain
Less Time for Rehab
To learn more about the benefits and technological advancements made in the last 30 years regarding minimally invasive spine surgery, refer to this video from our very own Dr. Joel Shobe.
BECOMING A CANDIDATE FOR MINIMALLY INVASIVE SPINE SURGERY (MISS)
While minimally invasive spine surgery offers numerous benefits, it’s not the right fit for all patients suffering from back pain. Ideal candidates typically have conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or certain deformities that haven’t responded to conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication. A thorough evaluation by a spine specialist at St. Cloud Surgical Center will determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to your specific condition.
Common conditions of MISS candidates include:
Herniated Discs
Spinal Stenosis
Degenerative Disc Disease
Scoliosis
Spinal Instability
Spinal Tumors
Whatever the reason for your pain, our highly skilled surgeons will find the cause and provide the best course of action. If surgery becomes your best option, the expertise and ongoing training of surgeons at our center will provide you with the most advanced surgical care available today.
WHAT TO EXPECT: FROM SURGERY PREP TO RECOVERY
If you’re considering minimally invasive spine surgery, knowing what to expect at each stage can bring peace of mind. While any surgery can feel intimidating, the process is designed with your comfort and recovery in mind. From preparation to recovery, here’s how the experience typically unfolds:
Preoperative Preparation: Prior to surgery, your surgeon and care team will discuss the plan and surgery process. Our team will also provide many touchpoints, such as checklists, emails, and phone calls, to assure you that your safety is our top priority!
During the Surgery: Under anesthesia, the surgeon makes small incisions and uses specialized instruments to access the spine. Real-time imaging guides the procedure, ensuring precision.
Postoperative Care: After the surgery, you’ll be monitored as you wake from anesthesia. Your care team will provide pain management strategies to implement, and you’ll receive instructions for at-home care and a plan for rehabilitation.
Everyone’s experience and pace will be different when it comes to recovery. The process is highly dependent on the individual and the specific procedure performed. When it comes to minimally invasive spine surgeries, this is what most patients can expect:
Early Mobilization:Patients are encouraged to walk and engage in light activities soon after surgery to promote healing.
Physical Therapy: A tailored rehabilitation program may be recommended to strengthen muscles and improve flexibility.
Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Living with chronic back pain doesn’t have to be your reality. Minimally invasive spine surgery offers a path to relief with fewer risks and a quicker recovery. If you’re considering this option, consult with the experts at St. Cloud Surgical Center to determine the best course of action for your spinal health.
Our top-rated ambulatory surgery center values a patient-centric approach focusing on your comfort, safety, and swift return to daily life. When patients choose St. Cloud Surgical Center for their care, they can rest easy knowing our team of experienced spine specialists is dedicated to successful outcomes and personalized care.
For those experiencing sudden vision changes or distortions, the expertise of a specialized eye surgeon can make all the difference. Over 20 years ago, Dr. Dale Reynolds opened Central Minnesota Retina Specialists, a private practice clinic specializing in retina care. Earlier this year, Dr. Reynolds and his partner, Dr. Gullapalli, partnered with St. Cloud Surgical Center to better serve our community. Together, the duo performs life-changing procedures that help prevent vision loss and restore sight for those in need.
A Passion for Sight-Saving Surgery
For Dr. Reynolds, a profession in medicine, more specifically retina care, was a calling. Having grown up with a blind grandparent, he understands firsthand the profound impact that vision loss can have on a person’s life. This personal connection fuels his commitment to offering high-quality, specialized retina care to his patients.
His expertise lies in treating complex retinal conditions, including:
Retinal detachment – A serious condition where the retina pulls away from its normal position, which can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
Macular holes – A small break in the macula, the central part of the retina, that causes blurred or distorted vision.
Epiretinal membranes – Scar tissue that forms on the surface of the retina, often due to aging, leading to vision distortion.
Dr. Reynolds likens his role to that of an endodontist in the field of dentistry—handling complex cases that require specialized techniques and expertise.
Why Retina Surgery Matters
While only a small fraction (roughly 1 in 300 people) of the population may require retina surgery, the impact of these procedures is immense. Retina issues can stem from aging, degenerative changes, or diabetes, often presenting as vision distortions or sudden loss of sight. Without timely intervention, these conditions can lead to permanent blindness.
For diabetic patients, in particular, retina issues are a growing concern. Poor vascular health can lead to bleeding and other complications that require advanced surgical intervention. As diabetes becomes more prevalent, the need for specialized retina care continues to grow.
Beyond diabetes, age-related retinal issues are becoming more common as life expectancy increases. Conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and vitreomacular traction are leading causes of vision impairment, making specialized care more important than ever.
For many, the thought of eye surgery can be daunting. Dr. Reynolds places a strong emphasis on patient education, ensuring that individuals understand their condition, the surgical process, and the expected outcomes. By alleviating fears and setting clear expectations, he helps patients feel more comfortable and confident about their treatment.
“Patients come in worried and in a high-stakes situation with potential vision loss. It’s important that we have an excellent center where we can get our surgeries done right here in Central Minnesota,” Dr. Reynolds explains.
He takes time to explain each step of the procedure, potential risks, and the recovery process. By doing so, he empowers patients to make informed decisions about their eye health.
Advancements in Retina Care
The field of retina surgery has evolved significantly over the years, with advancements in imaging and surgical techniques leading to better patient outcomes. Innovations such as high-resolution imaging allow for earlier and more precise diagnosis, while minimally invasive surgical methods improve recovery times and reduce complications.
Some of the most notable advancements include:
Optical coherence tomography (OCT): A non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed images of the retina, allowing for earlier detection of retinal diseases.
Micro-incision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS): A technique that enables retina surgeons to perform procedures with minimal tissue disruption, reducing recovery time.
Laser therapies: Advanced laser technology allows for precise treatment of retinal tears and diabetic retinopathy, preventing further damage.
Dr. Reynolds stays at the forefront of these advancements, continuously updating his knowledge and incorporating the latest techniques into his practice. His dedication ensures that patients in Central Minnesota have access to cutting-edge retina care without needing to travel long distances.
As technology continues to evolve, the future of retina surgery holds even more promise. Dr. Reynolds remains optimistic about the future and is dedicated to ensuring that his patients benefit from these breakthroughs as they become available.
Making a Difference in Central Minnesota
With a deep passion for his work, Dr. Reynolds finds fulfillment in restoring vision and preventing blindness for his patients. His commitment to excellence and compassionate approach make him a vital asset to St. Cloud Surgical Center and the broader community.
“For me, it’s a calling,” he says. “The success that I have is in making that happen for a lot of patients in the area.”
Beyond surgery, Dr. Reynolds and his team work to increase awareness of retinal diseases and the importance of early detection. Through community outreach and education, they aim to reduce preventable vision loss in the region.
By bringing specialized retina care closer to home, Dr. Reynolds and his team are changing lives one patient at a time. His work ensures that individuals who might otherwise face blindness have the opportunity to regain their vision and improve their quality of life.
For those experiencing vision problems, early intervention is key. If you notice sudden changes in your sight, consulting a specialist like Dr. Reynolds can make all the difference in preserving your vision for years to come.
For questions about Retina Surgery and other offerings at St. Cloud Surgical Center, contact us directly.
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