Introduction
Your hands are your lifeline — from typing at work to preparing a meal or even lifting a cup of coffee. But when pain, numbness, or swelling strikes, simple tasks become frustrating. Two common wrist conditions that can seriously affect daily life are carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and scaphoid fractures. Both may require surgical intervention if conservative treatments fail.
If you’re based in Hatfield and facing either of these issues, this article will walk you through everything from diagnosis to surgery and recovery.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist’s carpal tunnel — a narrow passageway made of bone and ligaments.
Causes:
- Repetitive hand use (typing, assembly lines)
- Wrist anatomy
- Medical conditions (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis)
Symptoms:
- Tingling or numbness, especially in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Hand weakness
- Pain that worsens at night
When Does Carpal Tunnel Require Surgery?
Initially, many people try splints, physiotherapy, or corticosteroid injections. But if these measures fail, surgery may be recommended.
Surgical indicators:
- Persistent symptoms beyond 6 months
- Muscle wasting in the hand
- Difficulty with gripping or pinching
Types of Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Open Carpal Tunnel Release
A small incision is made in the palm to cut the transverse carpal ligament and relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release
Involves smaller incisions and a quicker recovery. A tiny camera guides the surgeon to cut the ligament with minimal disruption.
What to Expect During Carpal Tunnel Surgery
- Anaesthesia: Typically local or regional
- Time: Around 15-30 minutes
- Outpatient: You’ll go home the same day
- Post-surgery: Your wrist may be bandaged, with mild soreness
Recovery After Carpal Tunnel Surgery
Recovery isn’t overnight, but with the right care, most people regain full hand function.
Pain Management
Pain is mild to moderate and often handled with over-the-counter medication.
Physiotherapy
Gentle movements begin within a few days to prevent stiffness.
Returning to Work
- Desk jobs: 1-2 weeks
- Manual labour: 4-6 weeks
Risks and Complications
Like all surgeries, carpal tunnel release comes with potential risks:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Nerve damage
- Scar tenderness
However, these risks are rare and usually manageable.
What Is a Scaphoid Fracture?
The scaphoid is a small bone in the wrist located near the base of your thumb. It plays a crucial role in wrist movement and stability.
Causes:
- Falling on an outstretched hand
- Sports injuries
- Motorcycle or car accidents
Symptoms of a Scaphoid Fracture
- Pain and tenderness on the thumb side of the wrist
- Swelling and bruising
- Decreased range of motion
In Hatfield, orthopaedic clinics use X-rays or MRIs to confirm the fracture.
Non-Surgical vs Surgical Treatment for Scaphoid Fractures
Cast Immobilisation
Minor fractures often heal with 6-12 weeks in a cast.
When Surgery Is Necessary
Surgery is needed when:
- The bone is displaced
- Healing doesn’t occur after weeks in a cast
- There’s concern about poor blood supply
Scaphoid Fracture Surgery in Hatfield
Scaphoid fracture surgery in Hatfield, patients benefit from highly trained orthopaedic surgeons who use the latest minimally invasive techniques.
Common Surgical Methods:
- Internal fixation with screws
- Bone grafting (in cases of poor healing or blood flow)
The goal is to stabilise the bone and allow it to heal properly.
Recovery After Scaphoid Surgery
Timeline
- Immobilisation in a cast or splint for up to 12 weeks
- Physiotherapy to regain wrist strength
- Full recovery may take 4-6 months
Post-Surgery Care
- Avoid heavy lifting or repetitive wrist motions
- Follow-up imaging to monitor healing
Choosing the Right Clinic in Hatfield
When selecting a surgeon or clinic:
- Look for specialists in hand and wrist surgery
- Read patient reviews
- Ask about surgical success rates and technology used
Hatfield has several reputable orthopaedic centres known for their personalised approach and advanced care.
Combining Treatments and Managing Comorbid Conditions
It’s possible to suffer from both carpal tunnel and a scaphoid fracture simultaneously — especially in cases of trauma.
In such instances, your surgical team in Hatfield may coordinate a comprehensive care plan that treats both conditions together, ensuring efficient healing and minimal downtime.
Conclusion
Whether you’re dealing with the numbing effects of carpal tunnel syndrome or the sharp pain of a scaphoid fracture, getting timely and expert surgical care is key. Hatfield stands out as a destination for high-quality orthopaedic treatment, offering advanced surgical options, experienced specialists, and holistic patient support. Don’t ignore the signs — your hands deserve the best care.
