Rachael Thomas spent years in office jobs before pursuing her dream of opening a licensed in-home bakery, Batter-Up Bakery, in Williamsport, in 2021.

But just as her business began to flourish, worsening carpal tunnel syndrome threatened to derail it.

The pain, numbness, and tingling in her right wrist became so severe that Rachael struggled with everyday tasks like holding a toothbrush or phone.

Decorating cookies, a key part of her business, became nearly impossible.

After trying braces, laser therapy, and chiropractic care with little relief, Rachael learned about a minimally invasive, ultrasound-guided carpal tunnel release offered by Fadi Sweiss, M.D., neurosurgeon, UPMC Neurological Institute in Williamsport.

Performed in summer 2023, the outpatient procedure required only a small incision and local anesthesia. Rachael was impressed by the simplicity and speed of the experience as well as the results.

“It was pain-free and quick. I walked out feeling hopeful,” she says. Within a week, her symptoms had dramatically improved. “No more tingling, no more pain. I could bake again.”

Now, two years later, Rachael is symptom-free and thriving. She’s expanded her business to include an ice cream shop and is back to decorating cookies, something she feared she’d have to give up.

“This procedure literally saved my business,” says Rachael. “Without it, I would not be able to be a small-business owner and thrive with what I do. I’d probably be back in an office job, and I think there would be a lot of unhappy people in the area if they couldn’t get my specialty cheesecakes anymore.”

She continues to recommend Dr. Sweiss to others dealing with carpal tunnel symptoms, grateful for the care that allowed her to keep doing what she loves.

“Dr. Sweiss was very kind and encouraging, soft-spoken, and just explained everything very well,” she says. “The care I received from him, and his team, was fantastic.”

Fadi Sweiss, M.D., sees patients at UPMC Health Innovation Center, 740 High St., Williamsport. To learn more about ultrasound guided carpal tunnel release and other services available at UPMC Neurological Institute in Williamsport, call 570-321-2820.

For more information, visit UPMC.com/NeuroNCPA.