Carpal Tunnel Surgery Recovery Time

When non-surgical options fail to fully alleviate pain and discomfort for patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery is an effective option to treat the condition.

When diagnosed and treated early enough, carpal tunnel surgery will not just alleviate pain but it will also help to avoid additional nerve damage.

Carpal tunnel surgery can relieve pain, numbness, tingling, and loss of grip strength in your hand.

Carpal tunnel surgery is very effective using Minimally Invasive techniques. Most patients recover without issues, and it’s rare that symptoms will reoccur.

Types of Carpal Tunnel Surgery

There are two proven carpal tunnel surgical methods used to restore normal hand and wrist function:

Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: This procedure uses a camera and makes one or two ¼-½” incisions in the wrist and the palm to cut the carpal ligament and enlarge the carpal tunnel.
Open Release Surgery: The traditional type of surgery that enlarges the carpal tunnel by cutting the carpal ligament after incising the palmar skin 1 ½ to 2 inches.

Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery is a more advanced procedure that is generally less painful, minimizes scarring and recovery time.

Endoscopic surgery is performed under regional anesthesia and uses a pencil-thin arthroscope, cannula and tiny knives.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery Recovery Time

Endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery is performed in an outpatient setting. We send you home with a light, soft dressing that needs to stay on for less than a week. Most people return to work in a few days.

You may benefit from short-term occupational therapy, but people usually return to work and athletic activities in a short amount of time.

Following Surgery

You should elevate your hand above your heart and move your fingers to reduce swelling and minimize stiffness.

There may be some pain, swelling, and stiffness after the surgery. You may experience mild soreness in your palm and wrist, as well.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery Recovery Time Articles

Learn more about carpal tunnel surgery recovery time with these educational articles from New York City hand and wrist surgeon Dr. Pruzansky:

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HandSport Surgery Institute is experienced in successfully diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome and performing carpal tunnel surgery.

If you are experiencing hand and wrist pain, schedule an appointment with New York City’s premier hand and wrist surgeons Dr. Mark E. Pruzansky, MD and Dr. Jason Pruzansky by calling 212-249-8700 or, click here to request an appointment.