How to get instant relief from carpal tunnel syndrome, and how surgery offers a long-term solution

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition. It’s due to compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. This can result in pain, tingling, numbness and weakness in the hand and fingers. CTS often affects people who perform repetitive hand or wrist movements, such as typing, manual labour or playing musical instruments. If left untreated, symptoms can worsen, potentially leading to permanent nerve damage.

How can you get instant relief from carpal tunnel syndrome?

For immediate relief from CTS, many people turn to simple self-care measures:

• Resting the affected hand and avoiding activities that aggravate symptoms can help reduce pain.
• Applying a cold pack to the wrist for 10 to 15 minutes can alleviate inflammation and numb discomfort.
• Wearing a wrist splint, particularly at night, keeps the wrist in a neutral position and can minimise nerve compression.

Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, may also ease discomfort by reducing inflammation. If symptoms persist, a corticosteroid injection administered by a specialist can provide more rapid relief by directly reducing swelling around the median nerve. However, these measures are typically short-term solutions and may not address the underlying cause.

When is surgery necessary for carpal tunnel syndrome?

If conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms or if CTS significantly impacts daily life, surgery may be recommended. Carpal tunnel release surgery is a straightforward procedure where the surgeon cuts the ligament pressing on the median nerve to relieve pressure. This is often performed as a day-case surgery under local anaesthetic and has a high success rate.

Post-surgery recovery involves temporary activity restrictions and physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility. Most patients experience a significant reduction in symptoms and an improved quality of life within weeks to months. Early intervention is key to preventing permanent nerve damage and restoring hand function.

What's involved in carpal tunnel surgery?

Carpal tunnel surgery, also known as carpal tunnel release, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

During the surgery, the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, is carefully cut to enlarge the tunnel space and reduce nerve compression. The procedure can be performed using an open or endoscopic technique, both of which are typically carried out under local anaesthetic.

Most surgeries take less than an hour, and patients can usually return home the same day. Recovery involves some temporary swelling and discomfort, with most individuals regaining full hand function within a few weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition before surgery.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can significantly affect your daily activities, but effective treatments are available. While immediate relief can often be achieved through rest, splinting and other non-invasive methods, surgery offers a long-term solution for those with persistent or severe symptoms. If you suspect you have CTS, consulting a medical professional promptly can help ensure the best outcome.