Carpal Tunnel Release
- Rikki Mistry
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 8
If pain, tingling, or numbness in your hand is making life uncomfortable, you may have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). This common condition can get worse over time, making even simple tasks difficult.
Mr Rikki Mistry, a highly regarded Consultant Plastic Surgeon specialising in Hand and Wrist Surgery, offers skilled treatment and attentive care to help you get back to comfortable, confident use of your hands.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The carpal tunnel is a narrow space in your wrist containing tendons and the median nerve. Swelling in this space can press on the nerve, causing a range of symptoms that often start gradually but can become constant over time.
Common signs include:
Tingling or pins-and-needles in the fingers
Numbness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
A dull ache or pain across the hand and wrist
Symptoms that worsen at night
CTS can be linked to repetitive hand use, past wrist injuries, pregnancy, or health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Tailored Care for Every Patient
No two patients are alike, so Mr Mistry begins with a thorough assessment before recommending the right approach for you.
Non-surgical options may be suitable in the early stages, including:
Wearing a night splint to reduce pressure on the nerve
Anti-inflammatory medication to ease discomfort
Steroid injections for short-term relief
In pregnancy, symptoms often improve naturally after birth, but support can be offered during the final trimester to ease discomfort. If your symptoms are persistent or severe, surgery is the most reliable long-term solution.
The Carpal Tunnel Release Procedure
Surgery is usually a day-case procedure under local anaesthetic, so you can go home the same day.
During the operation, Mr Mistry makes a small incision in your palm or wrist to divide the ligament pressing on your median nerve. This relieves the pressure and allows the nerve to function normally again in most patients. Patients with severe carpal tunnel syndrome, who may have a degree of irreversible changes to the nerve, the release is key to prevent further deterioration of nerve function.
Recovery and Aftercare
Most people notice a real improvement within four weeks. After surgery, you’ll be asked to:
Keep your hand elevated for 5 days
Follow simple finger exercises to maintain movement
Avoid heavy or repetitive activities during early recovery
Return to driving is generally achieved 1-2 weeks after surgery.
Full recovery typically takes three to four months, with grip strength returning between six and twelve weeks. Your follow-up appointments with Mr Mistry ensure your healing stays on track.
Why Choose Rikki Mistry
Patients appreciate Mr Mistry’s combination of advanced surgical expertise and a warm, approachable manner. You’ll receive:
Specialist care for hand and wrist conditions
Clear explanations and personal attention
Convenient locations across Sussex and Kent.
