Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Know What To Expect Article

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Carpal Tunnel Surgery: Know What To Expect

Carpal tunnel surgery is a complicated procedure with a potentially extensive recovery process. Here is an overview of what to expect.

Author: Andrew Stratton

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Carpal tunnel syndrome usually starts as a mild discomfort but if left untreated can lead to chronic pain and serious problems ranging from a lack of sensation in the hand to shrinking of the thumb muscles.

For patients who have not responded to carpal tunnel treatments such as cortisone injections, surgery may be welcome as a way to finally end the discomfort and difficulty performing daily functions which they have experienced. A doctor can use surgery to alleviate the problem by releasing the pressure on the nerve which will effectively allow for better blood supply and improved movement.

Carpal tunnel surgery is generally performed as an out-patient procedure but a patient my experience intense pain for the first few days. Your doctor will prescribe an after-care regime that may require you to keep your hand elevated for several days. A splint will be worn for up to three weeks and sometimes overnight for an even longer time period.

Heavy lifting will be restricted for about two months and vigorous activities will be limited for up to six weeks. A doctor will usually recommend finger and wrist exercises for the patient to perform and in some cases physical or occupational therapy will be recommended to restore full range of motion. The rehabilitation plan will depend on the size of incision and severity of symptoms.

While complications are relatively uncommon and most can be successfully treated, it's still important to be informed of and talk to your doctor about the risks possible with any type of surgery. In this case, those can include infection, blood clots, allergic reactions or loss of sensation in the hand.

It's also important to spend time discussing the outcome of the surgery with your physician as you will want to have realistic expectations. Many patients continue to have some symptoms after surgery, although they are usually significantly reduced.

Traditional carpal tunnel surgery will leave a scar extending from the middle of the palm to the wrist. Full recovery may take up to a year; with one's grip strength potentially being diminished for several months. Many patients are never able return to their original line of work or to continue the activities which initially led to the onset of the syndrome.

Ask your doctor about support groups, which can help you deal with the emotional distress felt from not being able to perform one's occupation, household tasks or hobbies as effectively as before.

About Author

For carpal tunnel, Houston based surgeon offers procedures that will relieve you of the painful condition. If you believe you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome and would like to explore your treatment options, visit http://www.cyfairhandandwrist.com

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