4 Surefire Signs of a Top-Notch Carpal Tunnel Surgeon

If you’ve been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, you know all about pain, numbness, and tingling in your hand and arm. It’s a common condition that occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand from your wrist becomes squeezed or compressed, and it can get worse over time. Surgery may be recommended to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

That’s when you’ll need to know these 4 Surefire Signs of a Top-Notch Carpal Tunnel Surgeon.

1. They’re a board-certified specialist.

When it comes to your hands, not just any doctor will do. A top-notch carpal surgeon should be board-certified in orthopedic surgery AND specialize in hand surgery. The more experience a doctor has with carpal tunnel surgery , the better your results are likely to be. At Orthopedic Institute, our board-certified hand specialists are Dr. Blake Curd and Dr. David Jones.

2. They won’t recommend surgery first.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be treated without surgery – through the use of braces, corticosteroids and changes to your daily routine. If you’ve been experiencing symptoms for a long period of time with no relief, or if your symptoms have begun dramatically interfering with your daily life, surgery may be right for you. The important thing is to arrive at that decision WITH your doctor during the course of treatment. If they recommend surgery the first time they meet you, it’s time to look for a second opinion.

3. They have excellent satisfaction ratings.

Do your homework! A quick search of any potential surgeon’s name online can give you a wealth of information – including whether or not they are in good standing with state and federal agencies, or have a history of malpractice claims. We’re proud of how the Orthopedic Institute team rates on Healthgrades.com.

4. They take time to talk with you.

Once you’ve narrowed down your list based on certification, experience and track record – it’s time to consider one final criteria: communication. Will your surgeon take the time to sit down with you, explain his or her process and what you can expect? Or will you only be meeting with them on the day of your surgery? (Hint: don’t settle for that last one.) Ask for a consultation appointment where you can meet and interview your surgeon.

Ready to take the next step? Make an appointment today or visit one of our walk-in clinics.