Overview
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes nerve compression in the wrist; treatment ranges from non-surgical to surgery.
Common symptoms
- Numbness and tingling in thumb, index and middle fingers
- Pain in the wrist, hand or forearm
- Weakness in grip strength
- Symptoms worse at night or after repetitive hand use
The procedure
Initial treatment focuses on activity modification, wrist splinting (especially at night) and anti-inflammatory medications or injection. If conservative measures fail, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended. The procedure releases the tight ligament compressing the nerve, restoring nerve function.
Recovery
Conservative treatment recovery occurs gradually over 6-12 weeks as symptoms improve with splinting and activity modification. Surgical patients return home on the same day. Early gentle hand mobility exercises prevent stiffness. Patients are encouraged to massage their wound site as soon as it is healed to aid recovery. Most patients achieve symptom relief within 4-6 weeks after surgery.
Quick facts
Assessment time
30-45 minutes
Diagnosis tools
Symptoms, nerve tests (EMG)
Conservative recovery
6-12 weeks
Surgery success rate
90-95%
Covered by all major UK insurers. No GP referral needed for self-pay.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Your recovery pathway
From your first appointment to full recovery, here’s exactly what to expect — so you know every step before you even book.
01
You get seen
Initial consultation and examination with Mr Mitra to confirm your diagnosis.
ANAESTHETIC & PATIENT COMFORT
Dr Khandelwal – Consultant Anaesthetist
Working in close clinical partnership with Mr Aveek Mitra, Dr Khandelwal specialises in advanced regional nerve blocks and bespoke sedation pathways, ensuring maximum surgical comfort and rapid same-day recovery.
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