At Orthopedic Specialists, our expert orthopedic surgeons specialize in treating carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome, which cause pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. If non-surgical treatments haven’t provided relief, our skilled team can offer surgical solutions to help you regain comfort and function.
With over 15 years of experience in hand surgery and wrist surgery, Orthopedic Specialists is a trusted leader in the Fort Dodge area and throughout Iowa. Our surgeons are highly skilled in performing carpal and cubital tunnel release surgeries, using advanced techniques to provide the best outcomes for our patients.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed in the carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway in the wrist. This pressure can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
If left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage, making it harder to use your hand and fingers.
What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of your elbow, becomes compressed. This condition often causes tingling, numbness, or weakness in the ring and little fingers. It can also cause pain or discomfort on the inside of the elbow, especially when the arm is bent for long periods.
Causes and Treatments
Two common causes of numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand are carpal tunnel syndrome and cubital tunnel syndrome. While they originate in different parts of the body, both conditions arise from abnormal pressure on a nerve and lead to similar symptoms. In both cases, this pressure is caused by the narrowing of a “tunnel” through which the nerve passes. The carpal bones of the wrist form the bottom and sides of the carpal tunnel, while a band of tough connective tissue forms the top. In the case of cubital tunnel syndrome, the tunnel in question is formed by connective tissue that runs under a bony protrusion on the inside of the elbow called the medial epicondyle. This spot is colloquially referred to as the “funny bone.”
If nonsurgical treatments prove ineffective in treating either of these conditions, a simple surgical procedure called a “release” is often employed. In both cases, the surgeon will cut the “roof” of this tunnel, dividing it in two. Over time, new tissue bridges this gap, resulting in a larger tunnel with extra room for the nerve. As the nerve is no longer impinged, the symptoms typically go away. In most cases, these release procedures are done on an outpatient basis, with the patient able to return home that day. However, like any surgery, recovery usually involves follow-up care and possibly physical therapy, depending on the individual case.
Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
What is Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery?
Carpal tunnel release is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. By doing so, more space is created for the nerve, alleviating symptoms like pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand.
This procedure is generally performed under local anesthesia on an outpatient basis, meaning you can go home the same day. It’s a safe and effective solution when other treatments, such as splints, physical therapy, and corticosteroid injections, haven’t provided long-lasting relief.
What to Expect During Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
There are three types of carpal tunnel release surgery:
- Open Release: The surgeon makes a small incision in your wrist to access and cut the ligament.
- Endoscopic Release: A small camera and surgical instruments are inserted through tiny incisions, making it minimally invasive.
- Ultrasound-Guided Release: A small probe is inserted using ultrasound imaging to guide the procedure.
Benefits of Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
- Relieves pain and discomfort caused by carpal tunnel syndrome
- Restores function in the hand and wrist
- Reduces the risk of permanent nerve damage
How Long is Recovery from Carpal Tunnel Surgery?
After surgery, you’ll likely wear a carpal tunnel splint for 1 to 2 weeks to protect your wrist. Physical therapy will follow to strengthen your hand and wrist and help you regain full motion. Pain relief is generally achieved with medications, and swelling can be managed by elevating your hand at night. Most patients can return to normal activities within a few weeks, although full recovery may take several months.
Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery
What is Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery?
Similar to carpal tunnel release, cubital tunnel release surgery is used to treat cubital tunnel syndrome. The procedure involves cutting the ligament or tissue compressing the ulnar nerve to create more space for the nerve. This reduces symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
What to Expect During Cubital Tunnel Surgery
Cubital tunnel release can be performed using an open approach or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the severity of the condition and the surgeon’s assessment. The goal is to release pressure on the ulnar nerve, restoring sensation and function to the fingers and hand. The same types of surgery used in carpal tunnel release are also used for cubital tunnel release.
Recovery Time from Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery
After cubital tunnel release surgery, you may need to wear a splint for several weeks. Follow-up appointments will ensure your recovery is on track. Physical therapy is often recommended to help strengthen the arm and prevent stiffness. As with carpal tunnel surgery, full recovery can take a few weeks to several months.
Schedule Your Consultation Today at Orthopedic Specialists
If you’re struggling with carpal or cubital tunnel syndrome and non-surgical treatments haven’t worked, surgery may be the right option for you. Contact Orthopedic Specialists today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how carpal and cubital tunnel release surgery can help you find relief.
Our expert team is here to guide you through every step of your orthopedic treatment, from diagnosis to recovery. Don’t wait to get the care you deserve — contact us now!
To learn more about what to expect when you undergo carpal tunnel release or cubital tunnel release, please visit our Surgery Preparation/Recovery page.