Carpal Tunnel Release: Relieving Numbness and Restoring Hand Function

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common hand condition caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through a narrow tunnel in the wrist. Patients often describe numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. As it progresses, it can lead to weakness, dropped items, and difficulty with fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt or gripping a coffee cup.

Dr. Todd Pitts explains how carpal tunnel is diagnosed, treated conservatively, and—if necessary—relieved through a quick and effective surgical procedure.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a tight space formed by the wrist bones and covered by the transverse carpal ligament. The median nerve and flexor tendons pass through this tunnel. When swelling or overuse compresses the nerve, it disrupts sensation and movement—like a pinched wire that can’t send signals properly.

  • Before considering surgery, Dr. Pitts recommends:

    • Wrist bracing, especially at night

    • Activity modification

    • Anti-inflammatory medications

    • Steroid injections to reduce swelling

    In many cases, these conservative treatments relieve symptoms and restore function.

  • If symptoms persist or progress—especially when confirmed by an EMG study (a nerve conduction test)—surgery may be recommended to avoid permanent nerve damage.

  • Carpal tunnel surgery involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the tunnel, relieving pressure on the nerve and allowing it to heal naturally. There are two techniques:

    • Endoscopic (minimally invasive)

    • Open release (small incision at the wrist)

    Both methods are effective, and recovery is typically quick.

    • Procedure time: ~5–10 minutes

    • Immediate hand use encouraged (light activity only)

    • Keep incision clean and dry

    • Most patients resume full function by 4 weeks

    • Nerve healing can continue for several months, often improving gradually from the palm to the fingertipsDr. Pitts emphasizes that nerve recovery takes time, often healing at about 1 millimeter per day. While full sensation may not return in every case, the goal is to prevent worsening symptoms and restore hand strength and function.