Carpal tunnel syndrome - Questions to ask - Questions to ask

Helge: Take a look at the video of Mr Adrian Chojnowski, a consultant hand surgeon at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, Norwich.

Carpal tunnel syndrome - Questions to ask - Questions to ask: "About three in 100 of us suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome: pain, tingling or numbness in the hand, which can often cause sleepless nights. Exercises, medication and sometimes a splint can help reduce the discomfort, but often surgery is the only option.

We asked Mr Adrian Chojnowski, a consultant hand surgeon at the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital NHS Trust, Norwich, what he would want to know if he had carpal tunnel syndrome

How successful will surgery be?

Surgery can cure night symptoms and transient tingling, but if the nerve has been damaged as a result of carpal tunnel syndrome it probably won’t fully recover.

Are there any risks of complications?

Although this is a commonly performed operation and the majority of patients do well, complications, for example complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), can occur, which permanently affect hand function.

Can I do anything to help my recovery?

Avoid doing manual tasks after surgery until they feel comfortable. You need to slowly build up using your hand.

Will this procedure be painful?

The scar can be very tender for a few months. It's important to massage it with some simple skin cream to help desensitise it..."

Read more on the site...

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Click on the tabs to find out all you need to know about having carpal tunnel syndrome. Watch and read what an expert has to say and find out about other patients’ experiences. Then click to find out where you can get treated.