Carpal Tunnel Release: What You Need to Know About This Common Hand Procedure
What You Need to Know About a Carpal Tunnel Release
If you regularly experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand, you may be dealing with carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition, caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, is common among individuals who perform repetitive hand motions, use vibrating tools, or work long hours at a computer.
At Active Orthopaedics, our fellowship-trained hand specialists offer personalized evaluation and treatment—including advanced carpal tunnel release surgery—to help you regain comfort and function.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed. This can lead to:
- Numbness and tingling (often in the thumb, index, and middle fingers)
- Pain that may extend to the palm or forearm
- Weakness and difficulty gripping objects
- Symptoms that worsen at night or during repetitive tasks
Common risk factors include repetitive wrist motions, poor ergonomic setups, vibration exposure, trauma, obesity, and diabetes.
Treatment Options: From Conservative to Surgical
When diagnosed early, carpal tunnel syndrome can often be managed with non-surgical treatments:
- Wearing a wrist splint at night
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Ergonomic adjustments and activity modification
However, if symptoms persist or testing shows nerve damage, surgery may be recommended.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Release?
Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure that relieves pressure on the median nerve. It can be performed in two ways:
- Open Release: A small incision is made in the palm to access and release the ligament compressing the nerve.
- Endoscopic Release: A less invasive approach using a tiny camera and instruments through a small incision at the wrist.
Both methods aim to reduce or eliminate pain, numbness, and weakness by giving the nerve room to heal.
What to Expect: From Consultation to Recovery
Initial Evaluation: Your specialist will assess your symptoms, perform a physical exam, and review electrodiagnostic tests (EMG and nerve conduction studies) to confirm the diagnosis and severity.
Day of Surgery: Carpal tunnel release is an outpatient procedure lasting about 20–30 minutes. It is typically done with local anesthesia and sedation. Patients can go home the same day with a friend or family member to drive them.
Recovery:
- The surgical dressing is removed after 48–72 hours; patients can then use a bandage and resume light activities.
- Sutures are removed at the first follow-up (around 10 days).
- Most return to normal activities within 3–4 weeks, though some discomfort with pressure on the palm may linger for 2–3 months.
- Physical therapy is rarely needed but may be recommended if stiffness or sensitivity persists.
Why Choose Active Orthopaedics for Carpal Tunnel Care?
Dr. Erik Carlson and Dr. James Aglio, our hand surgery experts, are highly trained in both open and endoscopic carpal tunnel release. Dr. Carlson is board-certified in orthopaedic and hand surgery and is an active member of the American Society for Surgery of the Hand.
Our team prioritizes individualized care, accurate diagnosis, and safe, effective treatment to help you get back to the activities you love.
Ready to take the next step toward relief? Schedule a consultation at our Waterbury, Middlebury, or Southbury office today.
