In other cases, the median nerve gets pinched or compressed as it goes through the circle of bones in the wrist (the carpal tunnel). Testing will be able to demonstrate the need for surgery.

There's been some suggestion that psychologic factors are important in chronic pain problems. Patients who are depressed, anxious, or dissatisfied at work have more intense, longer lasting symptoms. Surgery won't necessarily change the picture. A job change or even retirement may be much more effective.

Experts advise physicians (especially surgeons) to use patient report of symptoms and function along with electrodiagnostic results when deciding to do surgery. If your physician suggested nerve conduction velocity tests, it's likely a very necessary step in the decision process.