Carpal Tunnel Release (CTR) is a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the median nerve, which passes through the wrist's carpal tunnel. This is often performed to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) when conservative treatments fail.

This guide provides comprehensive information about the procedure, recovery process, rehabilitation, and how Palms Physiotherapy and Allied Health can assist you before and after surgery.

Carpal Tunnel Release: Complete Guide to Surgery, Recovery, and Rehabilitation

What is Carpal Tunnel Release?

Carpal Tunnel Release involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve and alleviate symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and fingers.

Common Conditions Treated with CTR:

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) caused by repetitive motion or other medical conditions.

Symptoms Requiring CTR:

• Persistent numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, or middle fingers.

• Weakness in hand grip or difficulty performing fine motor tasks.

• Nighttime wrist pain or discomfort.

The Carpal Tunnel Release Procedure

1. Pre-Surgical Preparation

• Diagnosis: Confirmed via nerve conduction studies and imaging if necessary.

• Conservative Treatments: Splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, or corticosteroid injections tried prior to surgery.

• Pre-Hab Program: Strengthening and flexibility exercises for the wrist and hand.

2. Surgical Process

• Duration: 20–40 minutes.

• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia or light sedation.

• Steps:

  1. A small incision is made in the palm or wrist.

  2. The transverse carpal ligament is cut to relieve nerve pressure.

  3. The incision is closed, and the procedure is completed on an outpatient basis.

Recovery Timeline After Carpal Tunnel Release

Short-Term Recovery

• Hospital Stay: Usually outpatient; patients go home the same day.

• Pain Management: Pain relievers and icing the area to manage swelling.

• Bandaging: A bandage or splint is applied to protect the area.

Long-Term Recovery

• 2 Weeks: Sutures removed, light activities resumed.

• 6 Weeks: Return to most daily activities.

• 3 Months: Full recovery with restored strength and flexibility.

Rehabilitation After Carpal Tunnel Release

Phase 1: Initial Healing (Weeks 1–3)

• Focus: Rest, reduce swelling, and promote healing.

• Therapeutic Goals: Minimize stiffness and protect the surgical site.

• Exercises:

  • Gentle finger movements to prevent stiffness.

  • Elevating the hand to reduce swelling.

Phase 2: Functional Recovery (Weeks 4–8)

• Focus: Restore range of motion and strength.

• Therapeutic Goals: Improve flexibility and fine motor skills.

• Exercises:

  • Wrist flexion/extension stretches.

  • Grip-strengthening with a stress ball.

Phase 3: Advanced Rehabilitation (Weeks 9–12)

• Focus: Return to full activity and prevent recurrence.

• Therapeutic Goals: Rebuild hand endurance and fine motor coordination.

• Exercises:

  • Resistance band exercises.

  • Task-specific activities for occupational tasks or hobbies.

How Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Can Help

Pre-Habilitation Services

• Hand and wrist strengthening exercises to prepare for surgery.

• Education on post-operative care and wrist ergonomics.

Post-Operative Rehabilitation

• Tailored physiotherapy programs to enhance recovery and functionality.

• Assistance with scar management and desensitization techniques.

• Strategies to prevent recurrence through ergonomic training and strengthening.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I regain full hand strength after surgery?

Most patients regain full strength within 2–3 months, depending on adherence to rehabilitation protocols.

2. When can I return to work?

Desk jobs may resume in 1–2 weeks; manual labor roles may require 4–6 weeks or more.

3. Are there risks associated with CTR?

Complications like infection, stiffness, or incomplete symptom relief are rare but possible.

Book Your Pre-Hab or Rehab Program Today!

At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we provide expert care for patients preparing for and recovering from Carpal Tunnel Release surgery.

Reputable Australian Resources

• Better Health Channel – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/carpal-tunnel-syndrome

• Health Direct Australia: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/carpal-tunnel

• Australian Orthopaedic Association: https://www.aoa.org.au