Questions in The Neurology Forum are being answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic , consistently ranked one of the best hospitals in America. Either I didn't ask the right questions, or my doctor didn't explain enough. 3-I had carpal tunnel surgery twice. The thumb is still weak, and shakes when I try to use it or turn it a certain way.
Thenar muscles are still weak, and show atrophy.
A certain percentatge of polyphasia is allowed but if the number is high then that means either a nerve or a muscle problem. Yes, median nerve compression may damage the thenar muscles although not necessarily. Sensory fibers are also affected, usually before the motor fibers are involved. ANd yes, the damage may be permanent depending on the severity and the integrity of the nerve. Yes ,if there is tendon tear, the muscles don't work well.