CaRPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. It can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist, often affecting daily activities and work performance.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers

• Hand and wrist pain, especially at night

• Weakness or clumsiness in the hand

• Dropping objects due to poor grip strength

Early symptoms may come and go, but without treatment, they can become constant and more severe over time.

Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Diagnosis typically begins with a physical exam and a review of your medical history. Your provider may perform specific tests, such as:

• Tinel’s Sign or Phalen’s Test to evaluate nerve irritation

• Nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) to assess median nerve function

• Imaging (in some cases) to rule out other wrist conditions

Getting an accurate diagnosis is essential for choosing the right treatment path.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Relief

Most patients start with non-surgical treatments, including:

• Wrist splints, especially worn at night

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Activity modification to reduce repetitive strain

• Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation

• Hand therapy to improve strength and mobility

If symptoms persist or worsen, carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the median nerve and restore function.