Does an orthopedic surgeon perform carpal tunnel release?

Carpal tunnel release, also called median nerve decompression, opens the tight roof of the carpal tunnel so the median nerve has more room. Carpal tunnel syndrome may cause tingling, numbness, burning, or weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. An orthopedic or hand surgeon reviews your symptoms, hand strength, sensation, and work or sleep disruption. Testing may be used when the diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms are unusual. The operation can be performed through a small incision or with a camera-assisted approach, depending on the surgeon and your situation.

Arrange an assessment if hand tingling wakes you, grip weakness causes objects to slip, or symptoms continue despite changing wrist position and reducing aggravating tasks. Bring information about neck symptoms, injuries, pregnancy, medical conditions, and medicines. Ask whether a wrist splint, activity changes, injection, or surgery fits your findings. Before an operation, clarify dressing care, finger movement, work restrictions, and hand therapy.

Seek prompt care for sudden hand weakness, new severe pain after an injury, a cold or discoloured hand, rapidly increasing swelling, or numbness that is spreading. Following surgery, increasing redness, drainage, fever, severe swelling, or loss of finger movement needs medical advice.

Ask how the diagnosis was established, whether nerve testing is needed, what recovery may feel like, and when strength typically returns. Discuss possible causes outside the wrist, scar sensitivity, recurrence, and the symptoms that warrant an earlier review.