If you have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), you know how frustrating it can be. The pain, tingling, and weakness in your hand can make everyday tasks like typing, holding a cup, or even buttoning a shirt feel like herculean tasks.So, when is carpal tunnel bad enough for surgery? The answer depends on your symptoms, how long you’ve had them, and whether other treatments have been successful.In this post, we’ll discuss:
What carpal tunnel syndrome feels like
When to try non-surgical treatments first
The signs you may need surgery
What to expect from carpal tunnel surgery
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
According to Dr. Trevor Jackson, hand surgeon at Lancaster Orthopedic Group, “Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to your hand, is squeezed at your wrist. The median nerve controls sensation and movement in your thumb and first three fingers.”When squeezed, you may feel the following symptoms:
Numbness or tingling (like your hand "fell asleep")
Stabbing or burning pain in your fingers, hand, or wrist
Weakness (things constantly falling from your hand)
Shock-like zaps that radiate into your fingers
“These signs typically begin during the night and can interrupt your sleep. With time, they can happen throughout the day, especially when typing or gripping objects,” says Dr. Jackson.
Try Non-Surgical Treatments First
Surgery isn’t always the first treatment. Many people find relief with non-surgical treatments, especially if symptoms are mild. Here are some non-surgical treatments to try:
1. Wrist Splints
Keeping your wrist braced at night keeps your hand in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the nerve. You can feel better in a few weeks using wrist splints.
2. Activity Changes
If typing or using tools triggers symptoms, take frequent breaks, adjust your workspace, or use ergonomic tools.
3. Medications
Anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen or steroid injections may relieve swelling and pain.
4. Physical Therapy
Stretches and nerve-gliding exercises may relieve symptoms.If these treatments work, you may not need surgery. But if your symptoms become progressively worse, then perhaps it is time to consider surgery.
4 Signs Carpal Tunnel Is Bad Enough for Surgery
So, when is carpal tunnel bad enough for surgery? Here are the key signs:
1. Symptoms Last for more than 6 Months Without Improvement
If numbness, pain, or weakness hasn’t gotten better after trying splints, medication, or physical therapy, surgery could be the next step.
2. Severe Pain That Affects Sleep and Daily Life
If pain keeps you awake or makes everyday tasks like holding a fork difficult, surgery could be the next step.
3. Muscle Weakness or Shrinking (Atrophy)
If the muscles near the base of your thumb decrease in size or become weaker, the nerve injury could be serious. Surgery can prevent the damage from becoming permanent.
4. Nerve Tests Show Significant Pressure
A nerve conduction study (a test that checks how well your nerves work) can confirm if the median nerve is badly compressed. If there’s significant pressure, then it may be time for surgery.
What Happens During Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
If you and your doctor decide surgery is right for you, here’s what to expect:
Two Types of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Open Release: The surgeon makes a small cut in your palm and releases the ligament squeezing the nerve.Endoscopic Surgery: A tiny camera guides the surgeon to release the ligament through one or two tiny cuts.Both surgeries take about 10-15 minutes and use local anesthesia (you’re awake but won’t feel pain).
Recovery Timeline
First Few Days: Mild soreness, but pain relief is often immediate.1-2 Weeks: Stitches are removed, and you can begin doing light activities.4-6 Weeks: Most people regain full strength.Success Rate: Over 90% of patients see major improvement after surgery.
Is Surgery the Best Option for You?
Only a physician can decide if you need surgery, but consider the following questions:
Are the symptoms worsening?
Have I tried other treatments and not gotten any relief?
Is the pain causing me to have trouble working, sleeping, or performing daily activities?
If you answered yes, it might be time to consult with a specialist.
Get Help at Lancaster Orthopedic Group
Carpal tunnel syndrome doesn’t have to control your life. If home remedies are not helping, surgery might be the key to pain-free living again.At Lancaster Orthopedic Group, our hand specialists will talk over your symptoms, prescribe the best treatment (surgery or non-surgical), and guide you through recovery.So, don't wait until the nerve damage is irreversible. Remember, the sooner you treat severe symptoms, the better your chances for full recovery.If carpal tunnel is making life miserable, call us today to schedule an appointment.
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