Skip to content

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Person holding wrist with other hand

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the median nerve in the wrist. The carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway formed by wrist bones and a ligament, houses the median nerve and nine tendons that control finger movement. The median nerve is responsible for sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger, and it also controls the muscles at the base of the thumb. When pressure is applied to this nerve, it can lead to a variety of symptoms commonly known as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome can manifest in several ways, including:

  • Numbness and tingling, especially at night
  • Waking up with the need to shake or hang the hand over the bed
  • A sensation of swelling or fuzziness in the fingers
  • Dropping objects due to weakness
  • Difficulty with pinching or grasping
  • Discomfort in the wrist, hand, or fingers

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

CTS is usually caused by increased pressure on the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. This pressure may result from swelling or inflammation in the area. Various factors can contribute to this pressure, such as:

  • Inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout
  • Amyloidosis, infections, or psoriatic arthritis
  • Physical abnormalities, like bone spurs or tumors
  • Wrist fractures or dislocations
  • Repetitive wrist movements, especially with forceful gripping or vibrations
  • Prolonged positions like holding a closed fist or bending the wrist

In some cases, activities at work or home involving repetitive motion or pressure may worsen the condition. However, pinpointing whether work-related activities directly cause CTS or if they merely exacerbate an existing condition requires careful evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Risk Factors for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Certain factors increase the likelihood of developing CTS, such as:

  • Gender: Women are at higher risk than men.
  • Age: CTS is more common in individuals over 40.
  • Obesity
  • Health conditions: Diabetes, thyroid issues (hypothyroidism), and alcohol dependence
  • Family history: Genetics may play a role
  • Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and fluid retention can add pressure to the wrist area.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?

CTS is diagnosed through a combination of medical history, physical examination, and nerve conduction studies. A doctor will examine the wrist for tenderness, swelling, or deformities, and test the sensation and strength of your hand. Nerve conduction studies can measure how quickly electrical signals travel along the nerve, helping to confirm the diagnosis.

Other Conditions That Mimic Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Several other conditions can cause symptoms similar to CTS, such as:

  • Cubital tunnel syndrome
  • Cervical nerve root compression
  • Tendonitis (e.g., De Quervain’s)
  • Osteoarthritis or inflammatory arthritis
  • Vibration-related injuries (e.g., hand-arm vibration syndrome)
  • Raynaud’s disease
  • Thoracic outlet syndrome
  • Nerve damage from other causes, including multiple sclerosis or motor neuron disease

Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Early treatment for CTS is essential and typically involves addressing underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis.

Non-surgical treatments:
 
  • Wrist splints: Wearing a splint at night can help alleviate pressure on the nerve.
  • Steroid injections: Corticosteroid injections can temporarily reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.

Surgical treatments:
  • Carpal tunnel release: This surgery aims to relieve pressure by cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. It can be performed in two ways:
    • Open release surgery: Involves a small incision to cut the ligament.
    • Endoscopic surgery: Involves smaller incisions and uses a camera for a more precise procedure, typically allowing for a quicker recovery but with a higher risk of complications.

Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent CTS, several strategies can help reduce stress on the wrists:

  • Reduce force and relax grip: Avoid overly forceful or tight gripping during tasks like typing or using tools.
  • Take regular breaks: Stretch your hands and wrists frequently throughout the day.
  • Posture and wrist positioning: Keep your wrists in a neutral position when typing or using a mouse.
  • Proper workstation setup: Ensure your desk, keyboard, and screen are at the correct height to avoid straining your wrists.
  • Warmth: Keep your hands warm in colder environments to prevent stiffness and discomfort.
 
By following these precautions and seeking early treatment, it’s possible to manage and reduce the impact of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Further information

Last updated07 Aug 2025