Nerves in the arms and legs pass through narrow passages. When a nerve is squeezed in one of these tunnels, the result is tingling, numbness, pain or weakness, most often in the hand. If splints, medicines and changes in activity do not help, a short operation to release the pressure usually brings relief and prevents lasting nerve damage.
Who it may help
- Numbness, tingling or pain in the hand or arm that continues
- Symptoms that wake you at night, or come on with typing, driving or lifting
- Weak grip, dropping objects or wasting of hand muscles
- No lasting benefit from splints or medicines
- Nerve studies showing significant compression
Conditions treated
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (median nerve at the wrist)
- Cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve at the elbow)
- Radial tunnel syndrome
- Thoracic outlet syndrome
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome (at the ankle)
- Peroneal nerve entrapment near the knee
Procedures
- Carpal tunnel release The ligament that forms the roof of the tunnel is divided so that the median nerve has more room.
- Ulnar nerve decompression or transposition Pressure on the nerve at the elbow is relieved, and the nerve may be moved to a more protected position.
- Radial tunnel release The tight band pressing on the radial nerve is released.
- Magnified technique Done with magnification, and where suitable through a small incision or an endoscope.
Before the procedure
- A neurological examination and tests such as Tinel’s and Phalen’s signs
- Nerve conduction studies and EMG to confirm the diagnosis and its severity
- Ultrasound or MRI in complex or recurrent cases
- A discussion of how to protect the nerve and what recovery looks like
Recovery: what to expect
- Carpal tunnel and ulnar releases are often day-care, with discharge the same day.
- Stitches come out at about 10 to 14 days.
- Light activities return within 1 to 2 weeks.
- Strengthening exercises can start by week 3 or 4 if needed.
- Most people regain full use within about 4 to 6 weeks; the nerve may continue to improve over months.
- Night pain and tingling often improve within days.
These are typical timings. Your own plan depends on your condition, your general health and the operation chosen, and Dr. Chakraborty will go through it with you.
Risks to know about
Every operation carries risk. The ones most relevant here are:
- Wound pain or a tender scar
- Infection or bleeding
- Incomplete relief, especially when the nerve has been compressed for a long time
- Rarely, injury to a small nerve branch
- Return of symptoms in a small number of people
Your own risks depend on your health and your scans, and are explained in detail before you decide on anything.
Common questions
Is surgery always necessary?
No. Mild cases often settle with splints, changes in posture and medicines. Surgery is advised when symptoms persist, worsen or cause weakness.
Will my strength return?
In most cases it improves, and earlier surgery gives a better chance of a good recovery.
Is the operation painful?
It is a short, small operation and discomfort afterwards is usually mild.
What if the symptoms return after an earlier surgery?
Repeat operations are possible after a fresh evaluation to find out why the symptoms returned.
This page is general information to help you prepare for a consultation. It is not medical advice and does not replace an examination. Every plan is made for the individual patient.