Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated in two ways: non-surgically or with surgery. There are pros and cons to both approaches. Typically, non-surgical treatments are used for less severe cases and allow you to continue with daily activities without interruption. Surgical treatments can help in more severe cases and have very positive outcomes.
Non-surgical treatments
Non-surgical treatments are usually tried first. Treatment begins by:
Other treatments focus on ways to change your environment to decrease symptoms. This is often seen in the workplace, where you can make modifications to help with carpal tunnel. These changes might include:
Raising or lowering your chair.
Moving your computer keyboard.
Changing your hand/wrist position while doing activities.
Using recommended splints, exercises and heat treatments from a hand therapist.
Surgical treatments
Surgery is recommended when carpal tunnel syndrome does not respond to non-surgical treatments or has already become severe. The goal of surgery is to increase the size of the tunnel in order to decrease the pressure on the nerves and tendons that pass through the space. This is done by cutting (releasing) the ligament that covers the carpal tunnel at the base of the palm. This ligament is called the transverse carpal ligament.
If you have surgery, you can expect to:
Have an outpatient procedure where you will be awake, but have local anesthesia (pain numbing medication). In some cases, your doctor may offer an IV (directly into the vein) anesthetic. This option allows you to take a brief nap and wake up after the procedure is finished. This is not a general anesthetic, like what is used in surgery. Instead, your healthcare team will monitor you during the procedure (called monitored anesthetic care, or MAC). This is also used for procedures like a colonoscopy.
Be in brief discomfort for about 24 to 72 hours after surgery. People usually experience complete nighttime symptom relief quickly—even the night after surgery.
Have your stitches removed 10 to 14 days after surgery. Hand and wrist use for everyday activities is gradually restored by using specific exercise programs.
Be unable to do heavier activities with the affected hand for about four to six weeks. Recovery times can vary depending on your age, general health, severity of carpal tunnel syndrome and how long you had symptoms. You will continue to gain strength and sensation in the following year after surgery.
Have relief from most carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Cataract symptoms include:
Vision that’s cloudy, blurry, foggy or filmy.
Changes in the way you see color (colors may look faded or not as vivid).
Sensitivity to bright sunlight, headlights or lamps.
Glare, including halos or streaks that form around lights.
Cataracts don’t usually hurt. But they can cause discomfort by making your eyes more sensitive to light.
What is the best way to treat cataracts?
Cataract surgery is the only way to remove cataracts and restore your clear vision. During cataract surgery, an ophthalmologist removes your clouded natural lens and replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL). An IOL is an artificial lens that permanently stays in your eye. There are many different options for IOLs that your provider can discuss with you.
The main benefit of an IOL is that it’s clear — like your natural lens should be. Another benefit is that it can correct refractive errors, allowing you to rely less on glasses or contact lenses after your surgery.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries in the U.S. Most people have no serious complications. But it’s important to be aware of all possible risks, including retinal detachment and infection.
Certain eye diseases or underlying medical conditions can raise your risk of complications. So, you should talk to your provider about your individual level of risk prior to your surgery. Also, ask how they can treat any potential problems that may occur.
Recovery from cataract surgery
You may have mild pain and discomfort after your surgery. Your provider can give you a pain reliever to use for the first day or two.
Full recovery takes four to eight weeks. But you should notice improvements in your vision much sooner. Your provider will tell you when it’s safe to return to your usual activities.
How are cataracts diagnosed?
Ophthalmologists and optometrists diagnose cataracts through a comprehensive eye exam. Your provider will closely examine your eyes to look for signs of cataracts and assess their severity. Your provider will also ask you about your vision, your medical history and if you’re having trouble with everyday tasks because you can’t see as well as you once did.
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