Carpal Tunnel Release
If you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, at Ashford Orthopedic Specialists we offer carpal tunnel release surgery to alleviate the pain and get you back to function.
To find out if you’re a candidate for carpal tunnel release, reach us at our Athens or Loganville, GA, locations or book an appointment online today.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Release?
Carpal tunnel release is a type of surgery that is performed to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. The most common hand condition today, carpal tunnel syndrome causes pain and weakness in the hand by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. It is commonly the result of repetitive hand motions like typing, writing or using tools.
About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome usually start gradually and and night and include:
- Tingling and numbness in the fingers or hand.
- The sensation also can travel up the arm.
- Weakness.
In many cases, carpal tunnel syndrome is accompanied by trigger finger, learn more about it here.
Why Is It Beneficial?
Carpal tunnel release surgery carries several advantages for patients whose needs can be addressed with it, including:
- Hand and wrist pain relief.
- Ability to perform regular wrist movements.
- Improved dexterity.
- Pressure relief.
- Nerve preservation (prevention of further nerve damage from untreated nerve compression)
When assessing whether you are a good candidate for the procedure, Dr. Ashford will go over your medical history and ask questions regarding your health. During this consultation, he will also listen to and address any concern you might have.
“Dr Ashford has been great to work with throughout my procedure. My experience has been better than I expected. I am very pleased with Ashford Orthopedics and have and will recommend Dr Ashford for any orthopedic needs.” —Charles R.
How Do We Do It?
Overview
During carpal tunnel release surgery, Dr. Ashford makes one or more incisions in the palm of the hand over and through the carpal tunnel ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Preparation
Before the surgery, you should book a consultation at Ashford Orthopedic Specialists to assess the severity of the condition. Your surgeon will inquire about the medicines that you are taking, whether they are medicines, supplements, or herbs bought without a prescription.
If you smoke, it is a good idea to try to stop as smoking can slow down healing.
Let your surgeon know about any cold, flu, fever, herpes breakout, or other illnesses you might have. If you do get sick, you may need to postpone your surgery.
About the Procedure
You will first receive a local numbing agent to minimize discomfort and relax your muscles. Then, the surgeon will make a small surgical cut in the palm of your hand near your wrist. After that, Dr. Ashford will cut through the ligament that covers the carpal tunnel. Once this is done, pressure on the median nerve will ease. In some cases, the doctor will also remove the tissue around the nerve. To close the wound, the surgeon will use suturing (stitches).
Because it is performed on an outpatient basis, you will be able to go home on the same day.
After the surgery, your wrist will probably be in a splint or heavy bandage for about a week. Keep this on until your first follow-up visit, and keep it clean and dry. When the splint or bandage is removed, you will begin motion exercises or a hand therapy program.
If you are experiencing carpal tunnel symptoms and would like more information about carpal tunnel release, call Ashford Orthopedic Specialists or book a personalized appointment online today.