Carpal Tunnel Treatments near Bristol & Bath

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve is squeezed where it passes through the wrist. The median nerve controls some of the muscles that move the thumb; it also carries information back to the brain about sensations in your thumb and fingers.

When the nerve is squeezed it can cause pain or aching, tingling or numbness in the affected hand.

Women are more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome but the condition affects people of all ages. Carpal tunnel syndrome causes pain, aching, tingling or numbness in either one, or both, of your hands. It tends to come on gradually, over a period of weeks and the symptoms are usually worse in the thumb, index and middle fingers. Sometimes it may feel that your whole hand is affected and you may also have an ache in your forearm.

The symptoms tend to be worse at night and may disturb your sleep but you could also notice it most when you wake up in the morning. Hanging your hand out of bed or shaking it around will often relieve the pain and tingling. Carpal tunnel release surgery relieves pain by reducing the pressure on the median nerve.

The operation is carried out under a local anaesthetic and leaves only a small scar. The surgery is very successful for most people. Dr Gabriel does this procedure at Snowberry Lane Clinic and you would leave with your hand in a sling. It takes about 2-6 weeks to recover but in the consultation he will be able to answer all your questions.