Carpal Tunnel Release
Expert Orthopaedic Care by Dr Blake Fidock at Ortho Arc Brisbane
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist, causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness. When left untreated, it can interfere with your ability to perform everyday tasks, from typing to holding objects. For many patients, carpal tunnel release surgery provides lasting relief and restores function.
Under the expert care of Dr Blake Fidock, a leading orthopaedic surgeon in Brisbane, Ortho ARC offers specialist assessment and surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, including minimally invasive carpal tunnel release techniques.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve (one of the main nerves in your hand) is compressed as it passes through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. This narrow passage is surrounded by bones and ligaments, and when pressure builds up inside it, symptoms can occur.
Common carpal tunnel symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Weak grip strength or hand clumsiness
- Pain that may travel up the forearm
- Symptoms appearing worse at night or early morning
These symptoms can gradually worsen over time, especially if you work with your hands or perform repetitive motions. Many patients initially try wrist splints or anti-inflammatory medications. However, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended when symptoms persist.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can result from a range of conditions and risk factors. The most common carpal tunnel causes include:
- Repetitive hand movements (e.g., typing, assembly line work)
- Arthritis or inflammation
- Pregnancy-related swelling
- Diabetes or thyroid disease
- Injury to the wrist
Hand surgery specialists often see CTS in patients who engage in prolonged or repetitive wrist activities. It’s a common diagnosis in patients referred for chronic wrist or hand pain, particularly when other treatments have failed.
About Dr Blake Fidock
MBBS (Hons. 1), MTrauma (Ortho), FRACS (Ortho), FAOrthA
Orthopaedic Surgeon
When to See a Specialist
If symptoms have been ongoing for more than a few months, or if your condition is worsening despite conservative treatments, you may be referred to a wrist surgeon like Dr Blake Fidock for assessment. An accurate diagnosis is typically confirmed with nerve conduction studies or ultrasound.
Dr Blake Fidock, a skilled hand and wrist orthopaedic surgeon in Brisbane, offers diagnostic services and treatment plans for carpal tunnel syndrome. His approach to hand and wrist surgery emphasises recommending options that are clinically appropriate and aligned with each patient’s needs.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery?
Carpal tunnel release is a short surgical procedure that aims to reduce pressure on the median nerve by cutting the transverse carpal ligament. This expands the space in the carpal tunnel, relieving pressure and improving symptoms.
There are two main techniques for carpal tunnel release:
- Open Carpal Tunnel Release
This is the most traditional and widely used method. A small incision is made in the palm and the ligament is divided to release pressure.
- Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release
This minimally invasive carpal tunnel release is performed using a tiny camera and instruments through a smaller incision. Endoscopic carpal tunnel release often leads to faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort for some patients.
Dr Blake Fidock will recommend the best carpal tunnel release approach based on your symptoms, anatomy, and preferences. Both techniques are commonly used by Brisbane hand and wrist surgeons with excellent outcomes.
Recovery and Outcomes
Most patients experience a significant improvement in symptoms after surgery. Numbness and tingling often resolve quickly, while grip strength may take longer to return. You’ll typically be able to use your hand for light activities within a few days, but full recovery can take several weeks.
As part of your carpal tunnel treatment, post-operative advice includes:
- Gentle hand exercises
- Keeping the hand elevated to reduce swelling
- Pain relief as needed
- Follow-up with your surgical team
At Ortho ARC, your recovery is closely monitored by Dr Blake Fidock and his team. We work alongside your referring medical team to keep your recovery on track.
Will Carpal Tunnel Treatment Fix My Symptoms?
Carpal tunnel release surgery has high success rates, especially when performed before severe nerve damage has occurred. Early treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome typically leads to better outcomes. In long-term cases, full sensation may not return, but most patients still report a major improvement in quality of life.
If you’re unsure whether carpal tunnel surgery is right for you, consulting a Brisbane hand and wrist surgeon like Dr Blake Fidock can help you understand your options.
Why Choose Ortho ARC?
Dr Blake Fidock, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon in Brisbane, uses the latest evidence-based techniques to deliver excellent outcomes. Dr Fidock is highly experienced in hand and wrist surgery, with a focus on treating carpal tunnel syndrome using both open and endoscopic approaches. His compassionate, patient-first philosophy ensures that you receive the best carpal tunnel treatment available.
Book a Consultation Today
If you’re experiencing wrist pain, numbness, or hand weakness, carpal tunnel release may be the solution that helps you regain hand function and improve your day-to-day comfort.
Contact Dr Blake Fidock at Ortho ARC, your trusted orthopaedic surgeon in Brisbane, for expert carpal tunnel treatment and personalised care.
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