Need Advice Carpal Tunnel Surgery

For those who've had carpal tunnel surgery - what are the pros & cons?

• How long is recovery time?
• How much improvement can I expect? (I'm keeping in mind that it's different for each individual.)

I had the steroid shot in late July & have been wearing wrist braces every night. I try to do the hand exercises. But, it's starting to hurt (noticeably) again.

For those who've had it done - is the surgery worth it? Thanks.

 

I had it pretty bad. Right hand, numb fingers, struggling to type. I was ready to go get cut. My wife convinced me to go to a chiropractor who did a technique called Active Release. I thought the chance of success were pretty slim. So I went for a visit, he told me he worked on carpal tunnel all the time. Told me it would take 8 visits, my insurance covered it, just come for 4 and if I didn't seen any relief, don't come back. After 3 visits I started noticing a change. At the end of 8 visits, I was completely back to normal, no surgery. That was probably 12 years ago and no problems. The chiropractor, Jim Matchett and I are still friends today. Unfortunately he just moved out of the area. I'd absolutely look for another chiropractor in the area that does Active Release before surgery. I saw what my mom went through with her surgery and I was much better off with a faster recovery time.

 

Hi, DanAngie. Thanks for your input.
I tried the chiropractor route & he helped with my right hand, but not with my left hand. He did not do the Active Release technique, though.
I've had a nerve conduction study & there are some nerve damage. I had a steroid shot 2.5 months ago & it seems to have worn off. I'm going back to the hand specialist to discuss my options. Good luck to me (=

 

I had the surgery and recommend it. Instant improvement. No pain after surgery. One month of restrictions for recovery and then back to the gym. Dr. David Miller Town Center Orthopaedics

 

Hi, JJB. Regarding the one month of restrictions, how restricted?
I'm told I could drive, but it's best not to use my left hand when typing (or any constant action). Thanks.

 

Driving ok...I was told to maintain normal activities with no lifting over 10 lbs, and no gym or physical workouts using the hands. The Surgery was a easy. Knowing what I know now and what I experienced, I would not postpone it nor would I worry about the recovery or restrictions.