How Long Does Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Last Without Treatment?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve, which runs through the wrist and into the hand. Without proper treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome rarely improves on its own and can significantly affect quality of life for months, years, or even longer. At The Face & Body Center in Flowood, MS, our team specializes in providing relief for carpal tunnel with both nonsurgical and surgical solutions tailored to individual needs.

What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel?

While carpal tunnel symptoms can vary somewhat, many patients report some combination of the following, particularly when carpal tunnel is not treated promptly:

• Numbness or tingling in the fingers
• Weakness in the hand or wrist
• Pain that radiates up the arm
• Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks

Can carpal tunnel go away on its own?

In most cases, carpal tunnel syndrome does not resolve on its own. Early intervention is critical to prevent worsening carpal tunnel symptoms. Mild CTS may temporarily improve with conservative treatments like rest, wrist splints, or activity modifications, but ignoring the problem can lead to persistent pain, weakness, and even long-term nerve damage.

Can you treat carpal tunnel without surgery?

For patients with early or moderate CTS, nonsurgical options are often effective in relieving symptoms. Some of the most popular nonsurgical CTS pain management strategies and treatments for carpal tunnel include:

• Wrist splints
• Steroid injections
• Lifestyle modifications

If nonsurgical methods fail to provide relief, we may recommend carpal tunnel surgery to prevent further complications.

How does carpal tunnel surgery work?

Surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is highly effective, with success rates exceeding 90%. The two primary surgical methods for carpal tunnel relief include:

Open release carpal tunnel surgery

This traditional approach involves making a small incision in the wrist to access and release the carpal tunnel ligament. The procedure relieves pressure on the median nerve and alleviates symptoms.

Endoscopic carpal tunnel surgery

This minimally invasive option involves two small incisions in the wrist. A tiny camera (endoscope) and surgical tools are used to cut the carpal ligament without fully opening the wrist, resulting in a shorter recovery time for many patients.

Our specialists at The Face & Body Center will determine the ideal surgical option for your condition based on your symptoms, lifestyle, overall health, and other individual factors.

Will carpal tunnel come back after surgery?

While carpal tunnel surgery provides long-lasting relief, recovery and rate of recurrence vary for each patient. You may experience soreness around the incision for several weeks, and it can take a few months to regain full strength and function in your hand and wrist. With proper carpal tunnel postoperative care, the recurrence of carpal tunnel syndrome is rare, allowing patients to enjoy comfort and peace of mind for years, decades, or even a lifetime to come.

Advanced surgical and nonsurgical treatments can provide lasting relief for carpal tunnel in Flowood, MS

If you're struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome, delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms and nerve damage. At The Face & Body Center in Flowood, MS, our team offers comprehensive care choices — from conservative treatments to advanced surgical solutions — to help you regain comfort and function. Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward relief and restore the health of your hands and wrists so you can get back to enjoying all that life has to offer.