Nerve compression syndromes like Carpal Tunnel and Cubital Tunnel Syndromec an disrupt your sleep, your work, and your life with persistent and frustrating symptoms. We offer a definitive surgical solution to release the pressure on the nerve, restore comfort, and allow you to return to your normal activities. 

What is a “Pinched Nerve”? 

A nerve compression syndrome, often called a “pinched nerve,” occurs when one of your body’s nerves is squeezed or compressed by the surrounding tissues, such as tight ligaments, swollen tendons, or bone. This constant pressure interferes with the nerve’s ability to function properly, leading to the classic symptoms of numbness, tingling, burning pain, and, in severe cases, muscle weakness. 

The Most Common Pinched Nerve: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

The most common nerve compression syndrome by far is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This occurs when the median nerve—which provides feeling to your thumb, index, middle, and part of your ring fingers—is compressed as it passes through a narrow passageway in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. 

Do you experience these classic symptoms? 

• Numbness and tingling in your fingers, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers. 

• Symptoms that wake you from sleep, forcing you to “shake out” your hand. 

• Aching pain in your hand, wrist, or even up your forearm. 

• Weakness in your grip or a tendency to drop objects. 

A Definitive Solution to Relieve the Pressure 

For moderate to severe nerve compression that doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, the definitive solution is a surgical procedure called Nerve Decompression, which literally means “to free the nerve.” The goal is to surgically divide the tight tissue that is pressing on the nerve, giving it more space and relieving the pressure. 

Carpal Tunnel Release 

• The most common example of this is a Carpal Tunnel Release. Through a small incision in the palm, Dr. French carefully divides the tight transverse carpal ligament, which acts as the “roof” of the carpal tunnel. This instantly creates more room for the median nerve, allowing it to heal and function normally again, leading to the resolution of your symptoms. 

The Importance of a Meticulous, Nerve-Sparing Technique 

While a Carpal Tunnel Release is a common procedure, it requires a delicate touch and an intimate knowledge of the intricate anatomy of the hand. The nerve and its small but critical branches must be protected at all times. Although a carpal tunnel release is a relatively quick procedure with great outcomes, Dr. French is careful to manage expectations through a comprehensive pre-operative consultation. Dr. French’s background as a plastic surgeon and his specialized Harvard training in hand surgery bring a refined, meticulous approach to this procedure, focusing on techniques that ensure the nerve is safely and completely decompressed for an optimal functional outcome.