Carpal Tunnel Release in Wayne, New Jersey

High Mountain Orthopedics is home to an experienced team of specialists and surgeons offering state-of-the-art orthopedic treatments, including advanced care for carpal tunnel syndrome. We serve Wayne, New Jersey with carpal tunnel release procedures to restore strength and comfort for patients struggling with carpal tunnel symptoms. Get in touch today to begin your recovery.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel, a passageway surround by bones, muscles, and ligaments, is found on the palm side of your hand. The median nerve passes through this tunnel, carrying sensory information from the hand toward the brain. Carpal tunnel syndrome arises when the passageway becomes too narrow. The too-tight tunnel pinches the median nerve, restricting its function and causing the following symptoms:

• Tingling or numbness in the hand or fingers
• A feeling like an electrical shock in the fingers
• Sensations that extend up through the arm
• Weakness and a tendency to drop objects
• Symptoms that worsen when gripping an object

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition that worsens over time. If not addressed promptly, you will experience continually worsening symptoms. Proper medical treatment can halt its progress and provide long-term relief.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Anything that puts pressure on the median nerve can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. While some cases don’t have an easily identified cause, many have been associated with one of a few common causes, including:

• Current or previous wrist injuries
• Swelling from rheumatoid arthritis
• Prolonged or repetitive wrist use
• Nerve-damaging illnesses, like diabetes
• Fluid retention from pregnancy or menopause

While anyone can be diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, researchers have identified a few risk factors that put certain individuals more at risk than others. These factors include:

• Genetics: Families can inherit an unusually narrow carpal tunnel.
• Sex: Women have narrower carpal tunnels than men.
• Health: Living with a nerve-damaging or inflammatory condition increases a patient’s risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Obesity: Some studies have shown obesity to be a risk factor.
• Occupation: Work that involves vibrating tools, assembly lines, or repetitive wrist flexing may increase pressure on the median nerve or worsen existing damage.

Carpal Tunnel Release

High Mountain Orthopedics treats carpal tunnel syndrome with a specially designed surgical procedure known as carpal tunnel release. It is often performed as an outpatient surgery, and patients can typically go home on the same day as the procedure. The process works as follows:

1. A local anesthetic is used to numb the hand and wrist.
2. The surgeon makes two tiny incisions on the wrist and palm.
3. With the guidance of an endoscope or small camera, the surgeon will carefully cut the carpal ligament to widen the carpal tunnel.
4. After closing the incisions, your hand will be placed in a splint or tight bandage to stabilize the wrist.

You will be monitored for a short time before being allowed to go home, and the splint or bandage will stay on for one to two weeks. During this time, you should move your fingers often to prevent stiffness. Bandage removal will be followed by physical therapy to increase strength and restore your range of movement.

Seek Treatment Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome or other hand and wrist conditions, consult with High Mountain Orthopedics about a release procedure. We have years of experience serving Wayne, NJ with this advanced treatment. Contact us online to learn more or to schedule your initial consultation and find the care you deserve.