When can I resume work after carpal tunnel surgery?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a disease that causes numbness, tingling and pain in the hands and arms. The condition is caused by pressure from the intermediary nerve, which passes through the carpal tunnel of the wrist. The risks of developing CT at work include powerful, repetitive tasks, prolonged use of awkward postures or vibrations.
One of the common questions patients ask doctors is: “When can I start working again after carpal tunnel surgery?”
Read on to learn more about carpal tunnel surgery and how long it takes for the average person to get off work.
How does carpal tunnel surgery work?
The carpal tunnel is a small space in the wrist that holds the median nerve. The median nerve controls the sensation of the thumb and the first three fingers. The bones and ligaments surround the carpal tunnel.
The most common type of carpal tunnel surgery is “open release” surgery. During this process, the surgeon will make a small incision on the palm side of the hand. They will then release the pressure of the median nerve by cutting the lipoplast on it.
Factors that affect recovery time
The time required to recover from carpal tunnel surgery may vary by several factors.
1) Severity of the condition: If you have mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome, you may only need to get off work for a short period. However, if you have severe carpal tunnel syndrome, it may take longer recovery periods where the interneuron is significantly compressed. In this medical condition, the median nerve is compressed through the carpal tunnel of the wrist. It causes numbness, tingling and weakness in the hands and fingers.
2) Surgery type: Two types of carpal tunnel surgery are open and endoscopic. Open surgery is more invasive, so recovery takes longer. Endoscopic surgery involves performing smaller incisions, so recovery time is usually shorter.
3) Job Type: If your body is harsh, such as construction work, it will take about six weeks to recover. If you have sedentary jobs, such as office work, you only need about two weeks to recover.
If you have to drive to work, you should not drive until your hands and fingers are filled with sensation and strength. It can take up to eight weeks.
Read this article: Can I drive after carpal tunnel surgery?
4) Other medical conditions: If you have other medical conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, it will take longer to recover from carpal tunnel surgery. These medical conditions can cause complications such as infection or slow healing.
Illinois Institute of Pain and Spine Studies It’s the best place to treat Carpal tunnel syndrome in Chicago. Our board-certified pain management physician specializes in carpal tunnel surgery to help you recover quickly and safely.
