Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Understand carpal tunnel syndrome, its symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment options to help manage hand and wrist pain effectively.
Written by Dr. M L Ezhilarasan
Reviewed by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula MBBS
Last updated on 1st Sep, 2025
Introduction
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, gets compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
CTS is more common in women and often affects people who perform repetitive hand movements, such as typing, using tools, or assembly line work. However, it can also develop due to other factors like pregnancy, arthritis, or diabetes.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The symptoms of CTS usually start gradually and may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
- Pain or discomfort in the wrist and hand, sometimes radiating up the arm.
- Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects.
- Burning sensation in the fingers.
- Nighttime symptoms that may wake you up from sleep.
If left untreated, CTS can lead to permanent nerve damage, so early diagnosis and treatment are essential.
Consult an Orthopaedician for the best advice
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of CTS, including:
- Repetitive hand movements (typing, sewing, using vibrating tools).
- Wrist anatomy (smaller carpal tunnel due to genetics or injury).
- Medical conditions (diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders).
- Pregnancy (fluid retention can increase pressure on the median nerve).
- Obesity (excess weight can contribute to nerve compression).
Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you experience persistent symptoms, a doctor may perform:
1. Physical Examination – Checking for numbness, weakness, and reflexes.
2. Nerve Conduction Study – Measures how fast electrical signals travel through the median nerve.
3. Electromyography (EMG) – Assesses muscle response to nerve signals.
4. Ultrasound or MRI – Helps visualize the nerve and surrounding structures.
Management and Treatment Options
Here are some ways to manage and treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
1. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Wrist Splinting – Wearing a brace at night keeps the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the nerve.
- Activity Modification – Avoiding repetitive hand movements or taking frequent breaks.
- Medications – Over-the-counter pain relievers (ibuprofen, naproxen) can reduce inflammation.
- Corticosteroid Injections – Helps reduce swelling and relieve symptoms temporarily.
2. Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Stretching Exercises – Gentle wrist and hand stretches can improve flexibility.
- Ergonomic Adjustments – Using a wrist-friendly keyboard or mouse, keeping wrists straight while working.
- Cold Packs – Applying ice to reduce swelling and pain.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight – Reduces pressure on nerves.
3. Surgical Treatment (Carpal Tunnel Release)
- If symptoms persist despite conservative treatments, surgery may be recommended. The procedure involves cutting the ligament pressing on the nerve to relieve pressure. Recovery usually takes a few weeks, and most people experience significant improvement.
Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
To reduce your risk of developing CTS:
- Take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks.
- Keep wrists in a neutral position while working.
- Strengthen hand and wrist muscles with exercises.
- Manage underlying conditions like diabetes or arthritis.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience persistent numbness, pain, or weakness in your hand, it’s important to consult a doctor. Early treatment can prevent long-term nerve damage.
Conclusion
Carpal tunnel syndrome can impact daily activities if left untreated, but with timely diagnosis, proper treatment, and preventive measures, most people can find relief and restore hand function effectively.
Consult an Orthopaedician for the best advice
Consult an Orthopaedician for the best advice
Dr. Anil Pradeep Jadhav
Orthopaedician
23 Years • MBBS MS (Ortho)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Manoj Dinkar
Orthopaedician
15 Years • MBBS, Dip (Orthopaedics)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Dr. Pradeep Lucas
Orthopaedician
7 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Orthopaedics, Fellowship in DFSI
Bengaluru
Revival Multispeciality Clinic, Bengaluru
Dr. Prashant Kumar
Orthopaedician
9 Years • MBBS,MS Orthopaedics, DNB Orthopaedics
Kolkata
Doctor's World, Kolkata
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
Consult an Orthopaedician for the best advice
Dr. Anil Pradeep Jadhav
Orthopaedician
23 Years • MBBS MS (Ortho)
Nashik
Apollo Hospitals Nashik, Nashik
(25+ Patients)
Dr. Manoj Dinkar
Orthopaedician
15 Years • MBBS, Dip (Orthopaedics)
New Delhi
THE DOCTORS NESST, New Delhi
Dr. Pradeep Lucas
Orthopaedician
7 Years • MBBS, Diploma in Orthopaedics, Fellowship in DFSI
Bengaluru
Revival Multispeciality Clinic, Bengaluru
Dr. Prashant Kumar
Orthopaedician
9 Years • MBBS,MS Orthopaedics, DNB Orthopaedics
Kolkata
Doctor's World, Kolkata
Dr. Sushruth J
Orthopaedician
5 Years • MBBS, MS (ORTHOPEDICS),Fellowship in Arthroplasty,FRGUHS – Spine surgery,FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, JP nagar, Bengaluru
