Introduction
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common hand and wrist conditions treated in North Georgia. It occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist, leading to pain, tingling, and weakness.
At Specialty Orthopaedics, Dr. Thomas Neustein evaluates patients in our Dawsonville and Braselton offices. When surgery is needed, procedures are performed in Gainesville, GA at our accredited surgery centers.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist formed by bones and the carpal ligament. Inside are the flexor tendons, blood vessels, and the median nerve, which controls sensation and motion in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
When inflammation causes swelling, pressure on the median nerve increases, resulting in symptoms such as pain, numbness, and tingling.
Common Symptoms
Patients may experience:
- Tingling in the fingers or palm
- Nighttime numbness that disrupts sleep
- Weakness or difficulty gripping objects
- Pain radiating into the wrist, elbow, or forearm
These symptoms can interfere with daily life if not treated.
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome can occur from many factors:
- Repetitive wrist motion from work or hobbies
- Arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis
- Wrist injury or fractures
- Fluid retention and swelling
- Certain medical conditions affecting joints and nerves
Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is essential. In our Dawsonville and Braselton clinics, evaluation may include:
- Examining the hand and upper extremity
- Nerve conduction studies to check electrical activity
- Imaging if arthritis or fractures are suspected
A personalized treatment plan is then created.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
In mild or early cases, conservative care may provide relief:
- Splinting to support the wrist
- Steroid injections to reduce swelling
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy and hand exercises
- Activity modifications to reduce irritation
These methods often help patients avoid surgery.
When Surgery Is Needed
In severe cases, or when symptoms do not improve with conservative methods, carpal tunnel release surgery is recommended. Warning signs include:
- Ongoing numbness and tingling
- Weakness and reduced grip strength
- Loss of hand function
- Persistent pain despite treatment
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
Carpal tunnel surgery is an outpatient procedure performed in Gainesville. The goal is to relieve pressure on the median nerve by carefully releasing the carpal ligament.
This allows the nerve and tendons to move freely, reducing symptoms and restoring function.
What to Expect in the Operating Room
Patients typically undergo the procedure under local anesthesia. Steps include:
- A small incision in the wrist or palm
- Careful protection of the tendons, blood vessels, and nerves
- Dividing the tight ligament to create more space
- Closure of the incision with stitches
The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, and patients go home the same day.
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery is straightforward for most patients:
- Swelling and mild soreness are common at first
- Gentle motion and exercises begin early to prevent stiffness
- Many return to daily tasks within days
- Strength and sensation improve over several weeks
A customized treatment plan is provided, often including therapy to promote healing.
Life After Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Many patients notice improvement in tingling and numbness right away. Over time, grip strength and motion return, allowing for normal use of the hand and wrist.
Surgery provides long-term relief in most treated cases, especially when paired with ergonomic changes.
Other Conditions We Treat
In addition to carpal tunnel syndrome, Dr. Neustein treats:
- Trigger finger and trigger thumb
- Hand and wrist arthritis
- Tendon injuries requiring hand surgery
- Fractures and upper extremity surgery
Why Choose Dr. Neustein
Dr. Thomas Neustein is a fellowship-trained, board-certified orthopedic hand and upper extremity surgeon. Patients in Dawsonville, Braselton, and Gainesville trust his expertise, advanced techniques, and patient-first care.
Whether you need conservative care or surgical treatment options, Dr. Neustein creates a plan that fits your life and restores hand function.
Schedule an Appointment
If you are experiencing pain or numbness from carpal tunnel syndrome, don’t wait. Schedule an evaluation at our Dawsonville or Braselton offices. If needed, your carpal tunnel surgery will be performed in Gainesville, GA, with a smooth outpatient experience.
