How rapid is recovery after carpal tunnel surgery?
The rapidity of recovery after carpal tunnel surgery is largely determined by how severe the condition was. In milder cases, pain, numbness, and tingling may resolve immediately after surgery. In more severe cases the symptoms may take up to 2 months to resolve, and in very severe cases improvement may occur for up to a year. In the most severe cases where the nerve has been severely damaged, surgery will usually prevent further deterioration, and may alleviate the symptoms partially or not at all. Some mild soreness and swelling around the incision tends to occur, and generally resolves over a period of about 6 weeks. Patients are encouraged to use their hand during this time.
