Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common peripheral nerve compression condition — causing hand numbness, tingling, and weakness from compression of the median nerve at the wrist. Surgical release is highly effective when conservative measures fail.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligament. The median nerve controls sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger, as well as motor function to the muscles at the base of the thumb.
CTS is the most common peripheral nerve compression condition, affecting an estimated 3–6% of the adult population. It is more common in women and becomes increasingly prevalent with age. While often associated with repetitive hand use, it can also occur without a clear precipitating activity.
Most cases are managed with a stepped approach — starting with the least invasive option and progressing only when needed. Our surgeons evaluate each patient individually to determine the most appropriate path.
Carpal tunnel release is one of the most commonly performed and reliably effective operations in hand and peripheral nerve surgery. It is indicated when symptoms are moderate to severe, when there is objective evidence of nerve compression on nerve conduction studies, or when adequate conservative measures have failed. The procedure is typically performed as an outpatient under local anesthesia, with most patients returning to light activity within a week and full activity within 4–6 weeks. Long-term outcomes are excellent in the majority of patients.
Our fellowship-trained neurosurgeons will review your history and imaging and discuss every available option — surgical and non-surgical.