You have carpal tunnel syndrome. It hasn’t resolved with conservative treatment, so you’re looking at surgery. You’re likely wondering about the recovery time. Will you be able to enjoy tennis this spring? When will you regain use of your hand if you need your hands for your job?
Board-certified orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jonathan Shults with Coastal Empire Orthopedics in Savannah, Georgia, performs many carpal tunnel procedures. It’s minor surgery.
Your recovery depends on the type of procedure Dr. Shults performs: open surgery vs. endoscopic surgery. If you have severe damage to your tissue, Dr. Shults may need to perform open surgery. Dr. Shults lets you know which method is going to work best in your situation.
It helps to know what to expect after any surgery so that you can plan your aftercare. The following are helpful tips about your carpal tunnel recovery.
You’ll have a bandage on your hand. Dr. Shults gives you written guidelines for aftercare. You need to avoid the activity that contributed to carpal tunnel syndrome and let your hand heal.
You’ll get your stitches out after about a week, using pain medication to avoid any discomfort. Dr. Shults provides simple stretches and gentle exercises you can start performing when he tells you it’s safe to do so.
Your recovery is quicker with endoscopic surgery because the incisions are smaller. You’ll be able to perform normal work activities, depending on how much they depend upon your hand, anywhere from several days to two weeks after surgery.
If you need open surgery, your wound is larger, so it takes longer to heal that area of your hand. Your recovery may take about twice as long. You may need to wear a splint for a couple of weeks. Dr. Shults can prepare a note for your employer indicating your need for accommodations at work.
Research shows that both methods have comparable long-term outcomes, in both symptom relief and the return of strength. That’s good news.
You can return to driving a few days after endoscopic surgery. Your recovery time is longer for open surgery; Dr. Shults tells you when it’s safe to drive again.
Because you have a faster recovery with endoscopic surgery, you’ll have less pain. You have less tissue damage in the adjoining area of your hand. You’ll manage the pain with prescription medication at first if needed.
Whether your carpal tunnel surgery was open or via endoscopy, you’ll need physical therapy once your wound heals. You’ll learn exercises that strengthen your hand and wrist. Practice the exercises at home as your therapist directs to ensure you regain your range of motion and prevent scar tissue.
Call Coastal Empire Orthopedics or book an appointment online if you’re experiencing undiagnosed hand and/or wrist pain.
