Clinic closed Good Friday 3rd April and bank holiday Monday 6th April
Same/Next Day GP Appointments
Leading Day Surgery
Consultant Led Specialist Clinics
Clinic closed Good Friday 3rd April and bank holiday Monday 6th April
Same/Next Day GP Appointments
Leading Day Surgery
Consultant Led Specialist Clinics
Our team of Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeons are able to assess and treat carpal tunnel syndrome under local anaesthetic from our day surgery unit based in Canford Cliffs.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common nerve compression conditions in the UK, affecting millions of adults. It occurs when the median nerve — which runs through a narrow passage in your wrist called the carpal tunnel — becomes compressed or squeezed.
This ‘tunnel’ houses both the median nerve and nine tendons controlling finger movement. When pressure builds within this confined space, it disrupts nerve signals travelling to your hand and fingers. CTS affects women more frequently than men and is particularly prevalent in people aged 40–60. It can occur in one or both wrists.
When left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can cause permanent nerve damage and significant loss of hand function, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by increased pressure on the median nerve within the wrist. Several risk factors are associated with its development, including:
Medical conditions significantly linked to CTS include:
In many cases, no single cause is identified. NICE guidelines recognise that carpal tunnel syndrome is often multifactorial, involving a combination of anatomical, occupational, and health-related contributors. Understanding the underlying cause helps guide the appropriate treatment.
Diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome is based on your symptoms and also a physical examination. One of our Consultant Orthopaedic Surgones will assess sensation, grip strength, and perform certain tests, including Tinel’s sign (tapping over the wrist) and Phalen’s manoeuvre (sustained wrist flexion).
In line with NICE guidelines, nerve conduction studies (NCS) are the gold standard confirmatory test, measuring the speed of electrical signals along the median nerve to quantify the degree of compression. You can find out if you are suitable for a Nerve Conduction Study here.
Ultrasound imaging can also be used to assess the nerve and exclude other causes.
Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms typically develop gradually and are often worse at night. The most common symptoms include:
Symptoms are frequently aggravated by activities involving prolonged wrist flexion – such as driving, reading, or using a keyboard.
If you recognise these carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, early assessment is recommended to prevent any longer term issues from arising.
Carpal tunnel release surgery — also known as carpal tunnel decompression — is a safe and highly effective procedure recommended by NICE for moderate-to-severe or treatment-resistant carpal tunnel syndrome.
It is typically performed as a day-case procedure under local anaesthetic, meaning you remain awake but your hand is completely numb. Your surgeon makes a small incision in the palm of your hand to divide the transverse carpal ligament, widening the carpal tunnel and relieving pressure on the median nerve. The procedure takes around 30 minutes. Both open and endoscopic (keyhole) techniques are available. Surgery has excellent long-term outcomes, with the majority of patients experiencing significant or complete relief of symptoms. It is widely considered the most effective long-term treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Recovery after carpal tunnel release surgery is generally straightforward. Your hand will be bandaged following the procedure, and most patients are discharged the same day. Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal in the first one to two weeks. You should keep the wound clean and dry until sutures are removed, typically at 10–14 days. Light hand use is usually possible within days, with a return to desk-based work often achievable within two weeks. More physically demanding work may require four to six weeks of recovery.
Numbness and tingling frequently improve within weeks, though full nerve recovery can take several months in longstanding cases. NICE recommends physiotherapy if recovery is slower than expected.
Transparent, competitive pricing for private hand and wrist surgery services, with no hidden costs. All consultations include a thorough assessment and a personalised treatment plan. Any additional tests or procedures will always be discussed and agreed with you before proceeding.
Per hand
We are able to accept patients who are insured by AXA, WPA, Vitality and BUPA. Insurance policies vary so it is worth checking with your insurer as to what they will cover.
Mr Richards is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, who see both NHS and Private patients. Mr Richard's work is focused on his area of sub specialist clinical interest; Hand, wrist and elbow surgery. Conditions treated include all types of arthritis, nerve compressions (carpal/cubital Tunnel Syndrome), tendonitis (tennis/golfers elbow, De-Quervains), ligament reconstruction (skiers thumb), Dupuytrens disease, removal of lumps/bumps, and trauma (fractures and soft tissue/tendon/ligament injuries). Surgical techniques include joint replacement and arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery.
Jeremy Southgate is a very experienced consultant hand surgeon who has worked in Dorset for over 25 years. He specialises in all aspects of hand and wrist surgery including carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytrens contracture, ganglions, arthritis and injuries.“Haven Medical is an excellent new facility to carry out hand surgical procedures under local anaesthetic in convenient surroundings.” - Jeremy Southgate.
Mr Richards is a Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon, who see both NHS and Private patients. Mr Richard's work is focused on his area of sub specialist clinical interest; Hand, wrist and elbow surgery. Conditions treated include all types of arthritis, nerve compressions (carpal/cubital Tunnel Syndrome), tendonitis (tennis/golfers elbow, De-Quervains), ligament reconstruction (skiers thumb), Dupuytrens disease, removal of lumps/bumps, and trauma (fractures and soft tissue/tendon/ligament injuries). Surgical techniques include joint replacement and arthroscopic (key-hole) surgery.
Jeremy Southgate is a very experienced consultant hand surgeon who has worked in Dorset for over 25 years. He specialises in all aspects of hand and wrist surgery including carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, Dupuytrens contracture, ganglions, arthritis and injuries.“Haven Medical is an excellent new facility to carry out hand surgical procedures under local anaesthetic in convenient surroundings.” - Jeremy Southgate.
At Haven Medical, we offer a comprehensive range of private medical services across multiple specialities — all under one trusted roof. From diagnostics and consultations to specialist treatments and wellness programmes, our expert team is here to support every aspect of your health and wellbeing.
No. You don’t need a referral to come to Haven Medical for carpal tunnel release surgery – you will need an assessment before hand to make sure that this surgery is right for you. This will entail a nerve conduction study, which is the gold standard way of making sure a carpal tunnel release will resolve your issues.
If you are on a waiting list already for carpal tunnel release surgery, please get in touch with us at [email protected], including a copy of your correspondence. Our Consultant Orthopaedic Consultants will review this information and advise if they need further information or if you can proceed to carpal tunnel release surgery without further investigation.
Yes – in fact, NICE guidelines state that first-line treatment for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome includes splints worn at night, corticosteroid injections into the carpal tunnel, and physiotherapy. If symptoms persist, or if nerve damage is present, carpal tunnel release surgery is the most effective long-term solution, bringing relief almost immediately, with improvements continuing over the following weeks.
Most patients return to light activities and desk-based work within two weeks of carpal tunnel surgery. Full recovery, including grip strength restoration, typically takes six to twelve weeks. Nerve-related symptoms such as tingling and numbness often improve quickly, though complete nerve recovery can take several months.
Untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can cause permanent median nerve damage, resulting in lasting numbness, chronic hand weakness, and wasting of the thumb muscles (thenar atrophy). NICE advises that patients with severe or progressive symptoms should be referred promptly for surgical assessment to prevent irreversible nerve injury.
Most patients return to light activities and desk-based work within two weeks of carpal tunnel surgery. Full recovery, including grip strength restoration, typically takes six to twelve weeks. Nerve-related symptoms such as tingling and numbness often improve quickly, though complete nerve recovery can take several months.
Carpal tunnel syndrome recurrence after surgery is uncommon, affecting fewer than 10% of patients. When it does recur, it is usually years later. The vast majority of patients experience long-term symptom relief following carpal tunnel release. Revision surgery is available if symptoms do return.
General information about Haven Medical and our services.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
Yes. Our doctors can refer patients directly into NHS pathways when appropriate, including urgent fast-track and two-week-wait referrals. If you need to have ongoing medication or other tests, and would like these carried out by the NHS, we can write to your GP to request this. Please note, there is no guarantee they will agree to ongoing treatment on the NHS.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
We normally have appointments available within a week or so. You can book directly, using the booking link, to have a consultation and for many of our blood panels. If you do not see the availability you need or have any questions, please contact us on 01202 110303 or send an enquiry form and we will be delighted to help. GP appointments are available same or next day – 5 days a week, face to face or remotely.
Feel free to reach out through our Enquiry form for any questions you may have or if you need assistance with scheduling alternatives.
Please call on 01202 110303
Available Mon-Fri, 8.30am to 6.00pm
Haven Medical’s practice is conveniently located in Canfords Cliffs (just between Bournemouth and Poole) in Dorset.
15 Haven Road, Canford Cliffs, Poole, BH13 7LE
Mon-Fri: 08:30 – 18:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 13:00
Expert advice and the latest updates in musculoskeletal health from Haven Medical’s orthopaedic team.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition in the UK, affecting around 1 in 10 people at some point in their lives. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, leading to pain, tingling and weakness in the hand.This guide
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition in the UK, affecting around 1 in 10 people at some point in...
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