Paul Hollywood to Undergo Hand Surgery for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The 'Great British Bake Off' judge will have surgery to address a 12-year battle with the condition affecting both hands.
Paul Hollywood, a judge on "The Great British Bake Off," has announced he will require surgery on both of his hands due to a 12-year struggle with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The 60-year-old television personality shared the news on Instagram, explaining that the condition stems from his long career working with dough, which has spanned over thirty years.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a medical condition characterized by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through a narrow passageway in the wrist. Symptoms can include pain, tingling, numbness in the fingers, hands, or arms, and potential weakness in the thumb or difficulty gripping objects. The condition typically begins gradually and symptoms may be intermittent.
Hollywood mentioned that the condition flares up periodically, prompting him to wear wrist supports for stability. He also noted that a recent incident while testing a race car, which involved his hand hurting from the steering wheel, exacerbated his symptoms. He revealed that surgery on both hands is imminent.
The announcement comes as a new season of "The Great British Bake Off" recently premiered, featuring Hollywood's new judging partnership with Nigella Lawson, who replaced Prue Leith. Lawson's debut has been met with critical acclaim, with reviewers suggesting she has revitalized the show's format. Critics have praised Lawson for bringing new energy, glamour, and intelligence to the program, often noting her dynamic with Hollywood.