What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that affects the hand and wrist. It happens when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in your wrist, gets squeezed. This nerve controls feeling and movement in parts of your hand. Because of this, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause pain, numbness, and tingling. Many people notice these symptoms while using their hands for daily tasks. Early treatment for carpal tunnel can help prevent lasting damage.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms often start slowly. However, they can get worse over time. Watch for these signs:

Numbness or tingling in your thumb, index, or middle fingers

Pain in your wrist or hand, especially at night

Weakness in your hand or trouble holding objects

Feeling like your fingers are swollen, even if they look normal

Shock-like feelings that move into your fingers

Sometimes, symptoms may come and go. But if they last, you should seek help.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several things can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The main cause is pressure on the median nerve. But, some people are more at risk than others. Here are common causes and risk factors:

Repeating the same hand or wrist movements, like typing or using tools

Wrist injuries or fractures

Health conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or thyroid problems

Pregnancy, which can cause swelling

Family history of carpal tunnel syndrome

Obesity

Working in cold environments

Because some risk factors are out of your control, it is important to know your risks.

How Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Is Diagnosed

If you have wrist pain or numbness, your doctor may check for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. First, they will ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may do a physical exam. During the exam, your doctor may:

Tap on your wrist to see if it causes tingling (Tinel’s sign)

Bend your wrist to check for numbness (Phalen’s test)

Test your hand strength and feeling

Sometimes, your doctor may order tests. For example, nerve tests (EMG or nerve conduction studies) can show how well your nerves work. In some cases, imaging tests like ultrasound may help rule out other causes. According to the CDC, early diagnosis can help prevent permanent nerve damage.

Treatment Options

Treatment for carpal tunnel depends on how severe your symptoms are. Many people get better with simple steps. Here are common treatment options:

Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night

Taking breaks from activities that cause symptoms

Using ice packs to reduce swelling

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen

Doing hand and wrist exercises

Getting steroid injections to reduce swelling

If symptoms do not improve, surgery may be needed. Surgery can relieve pressure on the median nerve. Most people recover well after surgery. However, recovery time can vary.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

While you cannot always prevent Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, you can lower your risk. Try these tips:

Take regular breaks from typing or repetitive tasks

Keep your wrists straight when working

Use a soft touch when typing or gripping tools

Stretch your hands and wrists often

Maintain a healthy weight

Stay active and exercise regularly

Because small changes can make a big difference, try to build these habits into your daily routine.

When to See a Doctor

If you notice numbness, tingling, or pain in your hand or wrist, do not ignore it. See a doctor if:

Your symptoms last more than a few weeks

Pain wakes you up at night

You have trouble holding objects

Symptoms get worse over time

Early treatment can help prevent permanent nerve damage. According to the WHO, seeking help early leads to better outcomes.

If you think you may have carpal tunnel syndrome, consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice.