Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to carpal tunnel syndrome, the nerve compression at the wrist that causes hand numbness and pain, covering diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment usually begins with
Specialist Assessment
Nerve Conduction Study
Medical Management
Care Team Follow-up
Most mild to moderate cases improve with splinting and medication before any procedure is considered.
You may need this evaluated if...
A carpal tunnel evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index or middle finger
- Symptoms worse at night or after repetitive hand use
- Weak grip or dropping objects
- Symptoms are not improving with rest or a wrist splint
Hand numbness has several causes, but a pattern like this responds well to early evaluation and treatment.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist, causing numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand.
Common Nerve Condition
One of the most frequent nerve compression conditions in the hand.
Repetitive Strain Related
Often linked to repetitive wrist movement or prolonged typing.
Night Symptoms
Numbness and tingling often worsen at night.
Highly Treatable
Splinting, medication and, if needed, surgery relieve most cases.
Common Symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers
- Hand pain that may radiate up the forearm
- Weak grip or difficulty holding objects
- Symptoms worse at night
- Clumsiness with fine hand movements
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, lifestyle and hereditary factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
1. Clinical examination
Specific wrist tests help reproduce and localise symptoms.
2. Nerve conduction study
Confirms the diagnosis and its severity.
3. Ultrasound, if needed
May be used to assess the nerve and surrounding structures.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Wrist Splinting, Especially at Night
- Anti-inflammatory Medication
- Activity & Ergonomic Modification
- Steroid Injection, Where Appropriate
Surgical Care
When symptoms persist or weakness develops despite conservative care, carpal tunnel release surgery relieves pressure on the median nerve.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, imaging, timing and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- You have mild, occasional numbness or tingling
- You want to try a wrist splint before other treatment
- You want a second opinion on a nerve conduction report
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Hand weakness or muscle wasting is developing
- Numbness is constant rather than coming and going
- Symptoms are not improving despite splinting and medication
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right neurology specialist.
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