Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Require Surgery?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can start as a mild annoyance — numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand or wrist — but as months pass, it can seriously interfere with your daily life. 

Dr. Jonathan Liu and Dr. Huey Yuan Tien, our board-certified hand surgeons at Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services, offer both non-surgical and surgical care for carpal tunnel syndrome here in Visalia, Porterville, Reedley, and Tulare, California. 

But how do you know when it’s time to consider surgery? 

Read on as we explain what happens with carpal tunnel syndrome, when you might need surgery, and when you don’t. 

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Your carpal tunnel is a small passageway on the palm side of your wrist. It’s made up of bones and a strong band of tissue called the flexor retinaculum. The tunnel protects the internal structures, including nine tendons and the median nerve. Your median nerve controls feeling and movement in parts of your hand.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when something compresses your median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This can be due to repetitive motion, injury, inflammation, or underlying health conditions like arthritis or diabetes.

Does carpal tunnel syndrome always require surgery?

Not necessarily. Carpal tunnel syndrome can benefit from both conservative and surgical treatment. Ultimately, your treatment depends on the severity of your symptoms and how they impact your life.

When surgery isn’t required

Mild to moderate cases often respond well to non-surgical treatments such as:

• Wrist splints (especially at night)
• Anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injections
• Activity modifications
• Physical therapy, especially nerve gliding exercises 

Many people find relief without ever needing surgery, especially when they identify and address the condition early.

When you might need surgery 

If your symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative care, or if there’s significant nerve damage or muscle weakness, Dr. Liu and Dr. Tien may recommend carpal tunnel release surgery. 

We may also recommend surgery if carpal tunnel syndrome is interfering with your ability to earn a living, for example, if typing at work becomes too painful or difficult.

Surgery is a long-term solution that relieves pressure on your median nerve.

What to expect from minimally invasive surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome

At Sequoia Institute for Surgical Services, we offer minimally invasive surgical techniques that promote faster healing, less pain, and smaller incisions compared to traditional surgery.

Carpal tunnel surgery is highly effective. Most people experience significant relief from:

• Pain
• Paresthesia (tingling)
• Hand weakness

Studies show up to 100% of people experience complete pain relief after surgery, with tingling reduced in 98% of cases and noticeable improvements in hand strength. All of this leads to better hand and wrist function.

Don’t ignore the signs of carpal tunnel syndrome 

While the thought of surgery can be intimidating, it’s often the next step to getting back to the activities you love — whether that’s typing at work, knitting, or simply preparing meals without discomfort.

Call our Visalia, Porterville, Reedley, or Tulare, California, office or click here to schedule your consultation.