Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through a narrow channel in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This pressure can cause numbness, tingling, weakness, and pain in the hand and fingers. At PSG, our board-certified plastic surgeons diagnose and treat carpal tunnel syndrome using both conservative therapies and surgical options when necessary. The goal of treatment is to relieve nerve pressure, restore normal hand function, and prevent further nerve damage.

Carpal tunnel symptoms often develop gradually. Many patients first notice numbness or tingling in the fingers, burning pain in the hand, or discomfort that is more noticeable at night. As the condition progresses, some individuals may experience weakness of the thumb or a tendency to drop objects more frequently due to reduced grip strength.

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Surrey, Langley, Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Coquitlam, Port Moody, Port Coquitlam, Pitt Meadows, and Mission, BC.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There is rarely a single cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. In most cases, the condition develops due to a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. Several risk factors have been associated with the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, including family history, increasing age, and obesity.

Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, sleep apnea, thyroid disorders, and arthritis, may also increase risk. Structural differences in the wrist, including previous fractures, can contribute to nerve compression. In addition, repetitive hand activities or the use of vibratory tools may aggravate symptoms. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also temporarily increase the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.

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Carpal Tunnel Treatment

Initial treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome often focuses on non-surgical approaches. A wrist splint worn at night can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve during sleep. Adjustments to daily activities or hand positioning may also help relieve symptoms. In some cases, corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and temporarily relieve nerve compression. If symptoms persist or nerve compression becomes more severe, surgical treatment may be recommended to release pressure within the carpal tunnel.

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Carpal Tunnel Surgery Recovery

After carpal tunnel surgery, the incision typically heals within 10 to 14 days. Recovery timelines vary between individuals, but many patients notice gradual improvement in hand comfort and function over several weeks. It may take approximately six to eight weeks for the hand to regain more normal strength and movement. In some cases, hand therapy may be recommended to help restore flexibility, strength, and coordination during recovery.

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Possible Complications

Serious complications following carpal tunnel surgery are uncommon. As with any surgical procedure, there is a small risk of infection, delayed wound healing, or temporary scar sensitivity. The surgical scar may feel tender or sensitive to pressure during the early stages of healing, though this usually improves with time.

The resolution of numbness and tingling can vary depending on how severe the nerve compression was prior to surgery. Your surgeon will review all potential risks and expected outcomes with you during your consultation.

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To learn more about how you may benefit from carpal tunnel treatment or to schedule a consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons, please contact our Surrey office today.

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Schedule a consultation with one of our surgeons and get honest guidance tailored to your aesthetic goals, right here in Surrey.

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