Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition and is a well-recognized phenomenon 
following a distal radius fracture. The treating surgeon should be vigilant in 
noticing the signs and symptoms. If acute carpal tunnel syndrome is noted, then 
surgical release of the carpal tunnel and fracture fixation should be performed 
urgently. If early carpal tunnel syndrome findings are noted during distal 
radius fracture management, all potential causes should be evaluated. Delayed 
carpal tunnel syndrome presenting after a distal radius fracture has healed is 
best managed in standard fashion. There is no role for prophylactic carpal 
tunnel release at the time of distal radius fixation in a patient who is 
asymptomatic.