Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can come and go or be constant, depending on how severe the condition is.

Common signs to look out for include:

• tingling sensations, like pins and needles

• pain and numbness in your wrist, thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers – this can be worse at night and in the morning, and may feel like a sharp, burning stab, or a constant ache

• weakness in your affected hand – causing you to drop things, making you feel clumsy

• muscle wasting at the base of your thumb

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve becomes compressed or squeezed. The cause isn’t always clear, but it’s thought you’re more at risk if you:

• have a specific medical condition – like thyroid disorders or kidney failure

• are pregnant or going through menopause

• have had a wrist fracture or dislocation in the past

• have arthritis

• have a smaller carpal tunnel in your wrist

• are female

• have a chronic illness that increases your risk of nerve damage, such as diabetes

• have an inflammatory condition – such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout

• take certain medicines

• are overweight or obese

• work with vibrating tools often, forcing you to make repeated movements with your wrist

A doctor or specialist will diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome by asking you questions about your symptoms, your medical history, and by examining your hand and wrist.

You may also need:

• an X-ray – to rule out other causes of wrist pain, such as arthritis or a fracture

• an ultrasound – it gives pictures of the tendons and nerves, and can show if the median nerve is being compressed

• electromyography – a thin-needle electrode is inserted into specific muscles to see how well they contract and rest

• a nerve conduction study – when 2 electrodes are taped to the skin and a small shock is passed through the median nerve. It can see if these electrical impulses move more slowly through the carpal tunnel and diagnose the condition

It’s not always possible to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, especially if a specific health condition or activity you can’t avoid has caused it. 

But you may be able to reduce your risk by:

• stretching your wrists and hands before and after intense physical exercise

• wearing protective equipment for all work or activities

• taking rest breaks often when working with your hands

• using proper techniques and maintaining good posture when carrying out certain activities

• keeping your hands warm – pain and stiffness are more likely if you work in a cold environment

If carpal tunnel syndrome is left untreated, this extra pressure over time can damage your median nerve, making it hard for you to feel, move or use your hand as normal.

Treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome can vary depending on how severe your condition is. In some cases, it resolves on its own with rest. In other cases, you may need:

• a splint – to keep the wrist straight

• painkillers – such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which work by reducing inflammation

• a steroid injection – steroids can thin the tendon lining in your carpal tunnel to help ease symptoms

• surgery – through open surgery or endoscopic (keyhole) surgery. It’s only used if other treatments haven’t worked, or if your symptoms are severe

At Welbeck, our orthopaedic consultants are experts in their field and are dedicated to providing world-class care to every patient.

With access to colleagues across other specialties, our consultants are also able to refer within the Welbeck ecosystem if required to ensure you receive the treatment you need as quickly as possible, all under one roof.  

All appointments, testing, treatment, and follow-up appointments take place within our state-of-the-art facilities, enabling us to deliver accurate diagnostics and advanced treatments.

Your health is important to us, so we strive to offer same-day appointments whenever possible.

Our consultants are recognised by the major health insurance companies. If you have private health insurance, your treatment at Welbeck can begin once you have obtained authorisation. We also provide care to self-paying patients. Learn more about the different payment options at Welbeck.

Get in touch today to book an appointment.