Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common hand conditions we treat at Tran Plastic Surgery, and it can significantly impact your ability to work, enjoy hobbies, and perform daily activities. Located in Huntington Beach, CA, our clinic specializes in diagnosing and treating carpal tunnel syndrome with both non-surgical and surgical approaches tailored to your needs.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located in the wrist, surrounded by bones and a strong ligament called the transverse carpal ligament. Through this tunnel runs the median nerve, which controls sensation and movement in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.
When the space in the carpal tunnel becomes narrowed—often due to swelling of tissues or thickening of the ligament—it places pressure on the median nerve. This compression leads to the hallmark symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome: tingling, numbness, and pain in the hand and wrist.
If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can progress, causing weakness, loss of coordination, and difficulty with everyday tasks.
Causes and Risk Factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome does not always have a single cause, but several risk factors can contribute to its development, including:
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Repetitive hand use such as typing, assembly-line work, or gripping tools
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Medical conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders
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Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
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Injury or trauma to the wrist
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Genetics, since some individuals naturally have a narrower carpal tunnel
Understanding your risk factors helps guide the most effective treatment plan.
Symptoms to Watch For
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may begin gradually and often worsen over time. Early detection is crucial to prevent long-term nerve damage. Common signs include:
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Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, or ring finger
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Pain that radiates up the forearm or down into the fingers
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Weak grip, hand clumsiness, or dropping objects
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Difficulty performing fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt or writing
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Nighttime symptoms that interrupt sleep, often prompting patients to “shake out” their hands
If these symptoms interfere with your quality of life, it may be time to seek evaluation from a hand surgery specialist.
Diagnosis at Tran Plastic Surgery
At Tran Plastic Surgery, our board-certified surgeon, Dr. Tuan Tran, performs a thorough evaluation that may include:
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Medical history review to assess risk factors and daily activities
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Physical exam to check sensation, muscle strength, and wrist flexibility
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Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) to measure how well the median nerve is functioning
An accurate diagnosis ensures that your treatment plan is personalized for the best outcomes.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
For patients with mild to moderate symptoms, nonsurgical treatments may provide relief and delay the need for surgery. These include:
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Wrist splinting: Wearing a splint at night or during repetitive activities helps keep the wrist straight and reduces pressure on the nerve.
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Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs): Medications such as ibuprofen may reduce swelling and discomfort.
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Activity modification: Adjusting your workstation or daily activities to reduce repetitive strain.
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Nerve gliding exercises: Gentle stretches taught in-office to help the median nerve move freely.
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Corticosteroid injections: Targeted injections to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.
These conservative measures may resolve symptoms in some patients, especially when started early.
Surgical Treatment: Carpal Tunnel Release
When conservative methods fail to provide long-term relief, surgery may be recommended. Carpal tunnel release surgery is a highly effective procedure designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
At Tran Plastic Surgery, we perform two main approaches:
Open Carpal Tunnel Release
A small incision is made in the palm to access and divide the transverse carpal ligament, increasing space in the tunnel and reducing nerve compression.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release
Using one or two small incisions, a miniature camera (endoscope) allows the surgeon to see inside the wrist and release the ligament with minimal disruption.
Both approaches have excellent success rates, and Dr. Tran will discuss which technique best suits your condition.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of your condition and your chosen surgical approach. General expectations include:
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Early movement: Patients are encouraged to move fingers shortly after surgery to reduce stiffness.
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Splinting: A short-term splint may be used to protect the wrist.
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Return to activities: Light activities may resume within days, while full grip strength often returns within 2–3 months.
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Hand therapy: For complex or prolonged cases, referral to a hand therapist may be recommended.
Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms and function.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgery, there are risks, though they are uncommon when performed by an experienced hand surgeon:
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Bleeding or infection
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Nerve irritation or injury
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Prolonged stiffness or soreness
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Rare recurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome
Dr. Tran takes every precaution to minimize risks and optimize recovery.
Why Choose Tran Plastic Surgery?
Choosing the right surgeon makes all the difference in your outcome. At Tran Plastic Surgery, we provide:
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Expertise from a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing in Hand Surgery
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Compassionate, personalized care tailored to your unique condition
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Advanced surgical and non-surgical techniques with a focus on safety and results
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Convenient Huntington Beach location serving Orange County patients
Our expertise extends beyond carpal tunnel syndrome to related hand conditions such as Cubital Tunnel Syndrome and Trigger Finger.
Take the Next Step
Don’t let carpal tunnel syndrome limit your life. If you are experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed, schedule a consultation with Dr. Tuan Tran today.
📞 Call us at 714-839-8000 or contact us online to begin your treatment journey with confidence.
✅ Expert care for your hands, right here in Huntington Beach, CA. Trust Tran Plastic Surgery to restore your comfort and function.
*References:
✍️ Krames Patient Education. (2020). Understanding carpal tunnel syndrome. Retrieved from https://dhch.kramesonline.com/3,S,82403
✍️ OrthoInfo. (2020). Diseases & conditions: Carpal tunnel syndrome. Retrieved from https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/