Introduction
We know that you are currently experiencing a long wait for your carpal tunnel release operation and that this can be very difficult.
We have developed this advice and information to help support you whilst you wait. It is designed to help you manage your symptoms and to help prevent these from getting worse. It also provides information about what you should do if your symptoms do worsen.
This guide has been written by the national experts in carpal tunnel syndrome and draws on the latest evidence and advice about how best to support people waiting for your procedure.
It includes links to advice and information which you can click on if using online, and details with regard helplines and other supportive websites.
Waiting for your carpal tunnel release
Carpal tunnel syndrome is when there is pressure on a nerve in your wrist. The carpal tunnel is made up of bones at the bottom and ligament at the top. Pressure inside the carpal tunnel causes symptoms which include pain and pins and needles.
Carpal tunnel release surgery is undertaken if symptoms have not improved despite other treatments, have become more severe or are associated with nerve damage causing muscle weakness.
It is important to manage any ongoing pain you are experiencing. Prolonged waiting in pain can create worries about money, difficulties if you’re a carer and can impact your mental health.
You may have been advised previously to reduce or stop activities that are causing symptoms. These are usually activities where you bend your wrist, grip something hard or use vibrating tools. Continue to follow this advice. If your symptoms do improve, you can start doing the activities again, gradually increasing the time spent doing them. Stop if your symptoms worsen.
You may have also been advised to use a wrist splint, either during activities which increase symptoms and/or at night if you are awoken by pains and pins and needles. You may have been given splints previously, or you can buy online or in many local pharmacies. Continue to use your splint if this helps.