If you've been struggling with wrist pain, tingling, or numbness in your hand, you may be experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome. This common nerve compression condition occurs when the median nerve becomes trapped inside the carpal tunnel space—a narrow passage in the wrist surrounded by bones, tendons, and the transverse carpal ligament. The result is pressure on the nerve that can cause burning sensations, weakness, and diminished grip strength in the hand, wrist, and arm.
For patients searching for carpal tunnel surgery Atlanta, Dr. Thomas Neustein offers a minimally invasive surgery option using the endoscopic surgery technique at his Duluth office in North Metro Atlanta. Trained at Emory University and the Philadelphia Hand and Shoulder Center, Dr. Neustein is a fellowship-trained orthopedic hand surgeon specializing in the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome and other upper extremity conditions. His experience and personalized care make the short drive from Atlanta well worth it.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most frequent causes of hand and wrist pain, weakness, and numbness. It typically develops from repetitive hand use, wrist position, or inflammation that increases pressure inside the tunnel. Some patients are more likely to begin developing carpal tunnel syndrome due to certain risk factors such as diabetes, arthritis, thyroid disease, or previous injury to the wrist.
The carpal tunnel is a small space bordered by wrist bones and covered by the transverse carpal ligament. When swelling occurs within this tunnel, the median nerve becomes compressed. This leads to symptoms such as:
- Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Pain or burning that travels up the forearm or arm
- Weakness or difficulty holding or gripping objects
- Nighttime symptoms that disturb sleep
Without treatment, long-term nerve compression can result in muscle atrophy and permanent numbness in the fingers.
Diagnosing and Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, Dr. Neustein begins with a thorough physical examination of the hand and wrist, testing sensation, strength, and flexibility. In many cases, he may recommend a nerve conduction study to confirm the degree of compression and guide your treatment plan.
There are several ways to treat carpal tunnel syndrome depending on how severe the nerve compression is. For mild or early cases, conservative treatment options often help relieve symptoms. These include:
- Wrist brace or splinting, especially at night
- Activity modification to prevent repetitive wrist strain
- Steroid injections to reduce swelling around the median nerve
- Physical therapy and stretching to improve flexibility and reduce inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory medications for pain control
If these non-surgical treatments fail or symptoms persist, Dr. Neustein may recommend surgical intervention to permanently relieve pressure on the nerve.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
For patients requiring surgical relief, Dr. Neustein performs endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery—a minimally invasive surgery that offers faster recovery and less postoperative discomfort. During this surgical procedure, a tiny camera is inserted through a single incision on the palm side of the wrist. This allows the surgeon to visualize and divide the transverse carpal ligament, relieving pressure on the median nerve.
The endoscopic surgery technique minimizes disruption to surrounding tissues, making it ideal for patients who need to return to work or daily activities quickly. Most patients notice immediate improvement in numbness and tingling once the carpal tunnel syndrome is treated.
Advanced Treatments and Surgical Intervention
Dr. Neustein's expertise in advanced treatments for the upper extremity ensures optimal results for patients who require surgery. His approach emphasizes precision and minimal tissue trauma. The arm, wrist, and hand are positioned to allow excellent visualization while protecting the surrounding tendons and nerves.
By using advanced endoscopic instruments, Dr. Neustein can release the compressed ligament safely and efficiently. This arm surgical intervention leads to faster healing and reduced scarring compared to older open techniques.
Advantages of the Minimally Invasive Approach
Compared to traditional open techniques, endoscopic carpal tunnel release offers numerous benefits:
- Smaller surgical incision and reduced scarring
- Less postoperative pain and swelling
- Faster recovery and return to activity
- Early motion and quicker return of grip strength
- Excellent visualization of the transverse carpal ligament and median nerve
By using this minimally invasive surgery, Dr. Neustein can achieve lasting relief while keeping the surgical incision clean and cosmetic. The small single incision allows for minimal tissue irritation and a faster return to comfort and function.
What to Expect During and After Surgery
Carpal tunnel surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia, allowing patients to go home the same day. The entire procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes. The doctor makes a small incision in the wrist, inserts the scope, and divides the ligament to release the nerve.
After surgery, the hand is wrapped in a light dressing or plastic wrap to protect the incision. Keeping the surgical incision clean and dry helps reduce swelling and prevent infection. Patients are encouraged to gently move their fingers immediately after surgery to maintain flexibility and circulation.
Recovery and Postoperative Care
Most patients experience a faster recovery and less discomfort compared to open surgery. You can usually perform light activities such as typing or writing within days, and full grip strength returns over the next several weeks.
Dr. Neustein recommends ice packs and elevation during the first few days to reduce swelling and improve comfort. As healing progresses, physical therapy or hand therapy may be introduced to restore motion and strengthen the hand and wrist. By following the postoperative plan, most patients return to work or hobbies quickly and without complications.
Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
There are ways to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome or avoid it returning after treatment. Taking frequent breaks during repetitive hand tasks, maintaining neutral wrist posture, and avoiding prolonged wrist flexion all help minimize pressure on the median nerve. A balanced lifestyle, healthy diet, and management of underlying medical conditions can further protect the nerves in the upper extremity.
Dr. Neustein works closely with patients to ensure their carpal tunnel syndrome is treated effectively and to help prevent recurrence through proper ergonomics and hand care strategies.
Why Atlanta Patients Choose Duluth
Many Atlanta residents prefer driving a short distance to Duluth for specialized carpal tunnel treatment because they value Dr. Neustein's fellowship-trained expertise and individualized care. His practice focuses exclusively on the hand and wrist, combining advanced techniques with compassionate follow-up.
At his Duluth office, patients experience the best of both worlds—academic-level skill with a personal touch. The clinic provides easy parking, minimal wait times, and direct attention from Dr. Neustein throughout every step of the process. For many patients, it's worth the drive north from Atlanta for truly specialized endoscopic carpal tunnel release surgery.
Schedule an Appointment
If you're experiencing tingling, weakness, or wrist pain from carpal tunnel syndrome, don't wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Thomas Neustein in Duluth, where your condition can be treated with advanced, minimally invasive surgery techniques that promote faster healing and lasting relief.
Get the advanced care you deserve—Emory-trained expertise, modern technology, and compassionate care in North Metro Atlanta.
