Get A Grip: Can Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery Help Chronic Hand Pain?

Wave Hand Pain Goodbye

Chronic hand pain can significantly disrupt daily activities, making simple tasks like typing, cooking, or even holding a cup challenging. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common cause of chronic hand pain. While individuals can employ several methods to manage the symptoms, surgery is often considered when other treatments fail to provide adequate relief.

What's behind your hand pain?

CTS occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, is compressed at the wrist. This compression happens in the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments. Swelling in this tunnel, often due to irritated tendons, can press on the nerve, leading to symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist, sometimes extending up the arm.

It's not always CTS

Hand pain can be caused by various conditions besides CTS. Arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, affects hand joints and causes pain. Other common issues include tendonitis and trigger finger, both related to tendon inflammation. Injuries like fractures or sprains, as well as other nerve problems such as ulnar nerve entrapment, are also significant causes of hand pain.

Catch it right away

Early signs of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, often felt at night. Many people report a sensation of swollen fingers without visible swelling. Progression of the syndrome leads to burning pain and hand weakness, impairing the ability to grasp objects or perform fine motor tasks.

Getting the diagnosis

CTS is diagnosed through a combination of symptom review, physical exams, and specialized tests. Initial exams like the Tinel and Phalen tests check for tingling or pain in response to wrist movements. Definitive diagnosis often involves electromyography (EMG), which measures muscle electrical activity, and nerve conduction studies to evaluate the function of the median nerve. These tests help confirm CTS and assess the severity.

Tackling the pain

Nonsurgical treatments for CTS include wrist splinting, particularly at night, to relieve nerve pressure. Anti-inflammatory medications can reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy and targeted hand exercises strengthen the hand and improve flexibility. For temporary relief, corticosteroid injections may also be used.

When most treatments fail

Carpal tunnel release surgery alleviates pressure on the median nerve by cutting the tissue band around the wrist. The procedure can be performed via traditional open surgery or a minimally invasive approach with a small incision and camera. Both techniques enlarge the tunnel and reduce nerve compression, with most patients experiencing immediate symptom relief. However, full recovery may take months.

Restore your grip

Chronic hand pain, often due to conditions like CTS, can significantly impact daily life. Early detection and management through nonsurgical means can help, but carpal tunnel release surgery is a highly effective option when other treatments do not suffice. Patients considering this surgery should consult healthcare professionals to find the best treatment plan.