Introduction
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common causes of hand pain and numbness. For patients in Dawsonville, GA, this condition can interfere with work, daily activities, and even sleep. Left untreated, the pressure on the median nerve can worsen, leading to weakness, tingling, and permanent loss of function. Carpal tunnel surgery, performed by an experienced orthopedic specialist, can restore strength, relieve pain, and improve quality of life.
This article shares one Dawsonville patient’s story and explains what you need to know about carpal tunnel syndrome, treatment options, and recovery.
Patient Story: Lasting Relief After Surgery
“Dr. Neustein is wonderful!! He created a plan for my carpal tunnel treatment to ensure that my pain and discomfort was properly diagnosed and treated; and that all of my problems were addressed. My carpal tunnel surgery went great and my hand is so much better now. Dr. Neustein and his entire staff are so kind and caring. Thank you!”
This review highlights the value of a thorough evaluation, precise diagnosis, and attentive follow-up care at the Dawsonville office.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. The median nerve passes through a narrow passage in the palm called the carpal tunnel, along with tendons that flex the fingers. When inflammation, swelling, or pressure builds inside this space, patients may feel numbness, tingling, burning, or pain in the fingers, palm, or wrist.
If left untreated, carpal tunnel can progress from intermittent discomfort to constant symptoms and even loss of muscle strength at the base of the thumb.
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome has many causes, including:
- Repetitive wrist and hand motion (typing, assembly line work, or manual labor).
- Medical conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or diabetes.
- Previous trauma or wrist fractures.
- Inflammation of the tendons or ligaments around the wrist.
- Fluid retention during pregnancy.
Both men and women can develop carpal tunnel syndrome, but women are at higher risk, especially after age 40.
Symptoms to Watch For
Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, or ring fingers.
- Pain that radiates up the arm toward the elbow or shoulder.
- Weakness in the hand, causing difficulty gripping objects.
- Nighttime symptoms that wake patients from sleep.
- Stiffness or loss of motion in the fingers.
If these symptoms persist despite rest or conservative treatments, an orthopedic specialist should be consulted to determine the best treatment options.
Diagnosis and Thorough Evaluation
At the Dawsonville office, Dr. Neustein performs a careful physical examination, testing sensation, strength, and range of motion in the wrist and fingers. In some cases, nerve tests are ordered to confirm the diagnosis and determine severity.
Same-day appointments are often available for patients with painful or disabling symptoms. This timely access ensures early diagnosis and helps prevent further nerve damage.
Conservative Treatments for Carpal Tunnel
Before considering surgery, many patients benefit from non-surgical treatment options, such as:
- Wrist splinting to keep the joint in a neutral position, especially at night.
- Anti-inflammatory medicine to reduce swelling.
- Steroid injections into the carpal tunnel to relieve inflammation.
- Physical therapy and exercises to stretch ligaments and tendons.
- Activity modification to avoid repetitive strain.
These conservative treatments may provide short-term relief, but when symptoms worsen or persist, surgery is often the best long-term solution.
When Surgery Is Recommended
Carpal tunnel surgery is recommended when:
- Symptoms persist despite splinting, medicine, or injections.
- Patients develop weakness, muscle wasting, or loss of grip strength.
- Numbness interferes with daily tasks such as driving, cooking, or writing.
- Nerve tests show worsening compression of the median nerve.
The decision is made after a thorough evaluation and careful discussion of risks, benefits, and expected outcomes.
Carpal Tunnel Surgery in Dawsonville
At his Dawsonville location, Dr. Neustein evaluates each patient personally and creates a customized treatment plan. Surgery is then performed at his Gainesville ambulatory surgery center (ASC), a modern site equipped with advanced technology.
The procedure, called carpal tunnel release, involves making a small incision in the palm or wrist and releasing the ligament that presses on the median nerve. This reduces pressure, improves blood flow, and allows the nerve to heal.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery is an important part of the treatment process. After surgery, patients are followed closely at the Dawsonville office, where Dr. Neustein monitors healing and progress week by week.
Typical recovery includes:
- Wearing a splint or bandage for the first 1–2 weeks.
- Gradual return to light activities.
- Supervised exercises and physical therapy to restore motion.
- Improved strength and full use of the hand over time.
Most patients experience better recovery when surgery is performed early, before permanent nerve damage occurs.
Risks and Complications
Like all surgeries, carpal tunnel release carries risks, including infection, stiffness, scarring, or delayed healing. However, in the hands of a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, complication rates are low, and most patients experience long-lasting relief.
Everyday Life After Surgery
For most patients, carpal tunnel surgery means a return to daily activities without pain, tingling, or weakness. Typing, cooking, exercising, and even hobbies like gardening or playing music become possible again. With continued exercises and proper care, patients regain confidence and independence.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein in Dawsonville GA
Patients in Dawsonville choose Dr. Neustein because:
- He is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in hand surgery.
- The Dawsonville location offers same-day evaluations and convenient follow-up care.
- Surgery is performed at a modern Gainesville ASC with advanced equipment.
- Patients benefit from personalized rehabilitation and a practice committed to excellent outcomes.
- Specialty Orthopaedics has earned a reputation as one of the best doctors’ practices in North Georgia.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does carpal tunnel surgery take?
Most procedures take 20–30 minutes and are performed on an outpatient basis.
When can I return to work?
Light activities may resume within a few days. Full recovery can take several weeks, depending on your job and daily activities.
Is physical therapy necessary?
Not always, but exercises and therapy help restore motion, reduce stiffness, and support a better recovery.
Can carpal tunnel come back?
Recurrence is rare when the ligament is fully released, but ongoing repetitive strain can contribute to symptoms in the future.
What happens if I don’t treat carpal tunnel?
Untreated compression of the median nerve can lead to permanent weakness, stiffness, and loss of hand function.
Call to Action
If you are experiencing hand pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness, don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Dr. Neustein provides expert carpal tunnel treatment at the Dawsonville office, with surgical procedures performed at his Gainesville ASC or at Northside Forsyth in Cumming,GA. Contact Specialty Orthopaedics today at to schedule your appointment online or by phone and begin your path to healing.
