If you’ve been told you may need surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s natural to have questions.
What exactly happens during the procedure? How long will recovery take? And is it really as straightforward as people say?
Here’s a step-by-step look at what to expect when you choose Provide Wellbeing’s carpal tunnel treatment, from your first appointment through to getting back to everyday life.
We also have the option to have your surgery performed by an experienced plastic surgeon.
Step 1: Specialist assessment
Your journey begins with a consultation with one of our experienced clinicians or our plastic and hand surgeon. They will:
- Take a full history of your symptoms.
- Examine your hands, wrists and forearms.
- Confirm whether carpal tunnel is the likely cause, or if further tests are needed.
- Discuss treatment options, including splints, steroid injections, or surgery if appropriate.
Step 2: Preparing for surgery
If surgery is recommended, your consultant will explain:
- What the operation involves.
- Benefits and potential risks.
- How to prepare (e.g. keeping the area clean, arranging transport).
- Expected recovery times based on your lifestyle and job.
Step 3: The day of surgery
- Arrive five minutes before your scheduled appointment.
- Local anaesthetic — you’ll be awake but comfortable; the hand is numbed.
- Small incision at the wrist — the surgeon carefully releases the ligament pressing on the median nerve.
- The procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes.
- No tourniquet is used, making the process gentler and recovery faster than typical hospital techniques.
Step 4: Recovery and aftercare
- Dressings – Applied to keep the wound clean and dry.
- Movement — Gentle finger exercises are encouraged immediately.
- Work and activity — Many return to desk jobs within 1–2 weeks; manual workers may need longer.
- Follow-up — Routine 6-week review included in your package.
Why choose consultant-led surgery?
- Reassurance — Advanced expertise for more complex or worrying cases.
- Continuity — See the same consultant from start to finish.
- Environment — Calmer, outpatient clinic rather than a hospital ward.
- Transparency — Clear pricing with no hidden extras.
- Quick – from arrival to discharge typically under one hour.
Conclusion
Carpal tunnel surgery is a short, safe procedure that can have life-changing results — restoring sleep, grip and confidence. With Provide Wellbeing, you’ll be guided every step of the way.
