Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist, often causing pain, numbness, and difficulty with everyday tasks. While many people associate Copeland Cosmetic Surgery with aesthetic procedures, our team also provides advanced surgical care for functional concerns, including carpal tunnel syndrome. Addressing this condition can not only relieve discomfort but also help restore mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. Whether your symptoms are mild or severe, understanding what carpal tunnel is and how treatment works is the first step toward lasting relief.
- What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
- Carpal Tunnel Symptoms
- Carpal Tunnel Treatment
- Carpal Tunnel Treatment Recovery
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. Surrounded by bones and ligaments, it serves as a protective channel for the median nerve and tendons that control finger movement. Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when this passageway becomes compressed or narrowed, putting pressure on the median nerve.
Several factors can contribute to this condition. Repetitive hand motions, frequent computer use, underlying medical issues such as arthritis or diabetes, and even pregnancy-related swelling may increase the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. In some cases, the cause is not obvious. Regardless of its origin, the result is often irritation of the median nerve, interfering with everyday activities such as typing, writing, cooking, or gripping objects.
What Are Common Carpal Tunnel Symptoms?
Carpal tunnel symptoms can vary in severity, but often progress gradually. Early recognition is important, as prompt treatment can help prevent worsening nerve damage. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling – Most often felt in the thumb, index, middle, or ring fingers. Many people notice this sensation when holding a phone, steering wheel, or book.
- Pain or burning – Discomfort may radiate from the wrist into the forearm or hand, especially during repetitive use.
- Weakness – Difficulty gripping or holding objects is common, as weakened hand strength develops over time.
- Nighttime symptoms – Tingling, pain, and numbness typically worsen at night, sometimes waking patients from sleep.
- Clumsiness – Tasks requiring fine motor skills, such as buttoning a shirt or typing, may become increasingly challenging.
If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage and significant loss of function. Prompt evaluation helps protect long-term hand health and mobility.
What Does Carpal Tunnel Treatment Entail?
Carpal tunnel treatment generally depends on the severity of the condition and the degree of nerve compression. At Copeland Cosmetic Surgery, we tailor care to each patient’s needs, beginning with more conservative approaches and advancing to surgical solutions when necessary.
Non-Surgical Treatments
For mild to moderate cases, non-invasive therapies may be effective. These include wearing a wrist splint (especially at night), anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and ergonomic adjustments to reduce wrist strain.
Corticosteroid Injections
In some cases, steroid injections may be recommended to decrease swelling and reduce pressure on the median nerve. This option can provide temporary relief and may be used for patients who are not yet ready for surgery.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
When conservative measures are not effective, carpal tunnel surgery is often the most reliable long-term solution. The goal of carpal tunnel release is to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the tunnel. This procedure can be performed using either an open or minimally invasive endoscopic approach. Both methods are designed to create more space in the tunnel, allowing the nerve to function properly again.
Our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Jeffrey Copeland and Dr. Brian Mailey, will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and recommend the treatment option best suited to your needs.
What Can I Expect from Carpal Tunnel Treatment Recovery?
Recovery may vary depending on whether a patient undergoes non-surgical care or surgical intervention.
For non-surgical options, improvement is usually gradual. Splints, therapy exercises, and ergonomic adjustments may relieve symptoms over weeks to months. While some patients achieve lasting relief, others may eventually require surgery.
For patients undergoing carpal tunnel release surgery, recovery generally includes:
- Initial healing – After surgery, the wrist and hand are usually wrapped in a bandage or soft dressing. Mild discomfort, swelling, or stiffness is common, but usually manageable with medication and proper care.
- Physical therapy and exercises – Gentle movements and stretching exercises are often recommended to restore flexibility and strength. Physical therapy can also help prevent stiffness and scarring that may limit mobility.
- Return to normal activities – Many patients notice significant symptom relief within days to weeks, though complete recovery may take several months depending on individual healing and the severity of nerve compression prior to surgery. Most people can gradually resume light activities within a few weeks and heavier tasks or work duties after several months.
- Long-term results – The majority of patients enjoy lasting relief from pain, numbness, and tingling, along with improved hand function. While recurrence is rare, adopting ergonomic habits and protecting wrist health can help maintain results.
At Copeland Cosmetic Surgery, our goal is to provide not only effective treatment but also comprehensive support throughout recovery. We understand that carpal tunnel syndrome can negatively impact daily life, and we are dedicated to helping patients regain comfort, strength, and mobility through personalized care.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, we invite you to contact our practice today and schedule a consultation with Dr. Copeland or Dr. Mailey!
