Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a widespread condition that causes numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand and forearm. It happens when the median nerve—one of the main nerves in the hand—is squeezed or compressed as it passes through the wrist in a small space called carpal tunnel.
The median nerve controls the movement and feeling of the thumb and all fingers except your small finger. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist made up of bones and ligaments. When this tunnel narrows or when tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell, they can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to CTS.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
CTS can result from several factors, including:
- Swelling: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can lead to wrist swelling, compressing the median nerve.
- Repetitive hand use/ hand and wrist position: Prolonged or repetitive hand movements or poor wrist positioning, such as typing or manual labour, can strain the wrist.
- Medical conditions: Health issues like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid imbalances can increase the risk of CTS.
- Heredity: Some people may have a naturally smaller carpal tunnel or different wrist anatomy that can limit space for the nerve.
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Early signs, usually start with tingling or numbness in the fingers, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers. These sensations often appear at night and may wake you up.
As the condition worsens, you might experience weakness in the hand, difficulties gripping objects or dropping them or perform tasks like buttoning a shirt or holding a phone.
In severe cases, you may lose sensation in the fingers or have trouble using your hand for everyday activities.
How can carpal tunnel syndrome be treated?
There are several ways to manage CTS
- Hand therapy: Personalised hand therapy that includes nerve gliding exercises, pain management, and strengthening techniques to help relieve pressure on the median nerve. A hand therapist will guide you through the most effective exercises to promote healing and ensure long-term recovery.
- Rest and splinting: Wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, can prevent further strain by keeping your wrist in a neutral position.
- Medications or steroid injections: can help reduce pain, swelling and relieve symptoms.
- Surgery: If symptoms persist or worsen, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the nerve. This is typically considered a last resort when other treatments haven’t worked.
How to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome
Preventing CTS involves making small adjustments to reduce stress on your hands and wrists.
- Take breaks: If your work involves repetitive hand movements, such as typing or using tools, take regular breaks to rest your hands and stretch.
- Improve ergonomics: Make sure your workstation is set up to minimise strain. Keep your wrists in a neutral position and adjust your chair and desk height for comfort.
- Stay active: Regular physical activity can keep your muscles and joints in good shape, reducing your risk of developing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a treatable condition, but early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, don’t wait to seek help. Whether you’re in Perth or elsewhere in WA, the team of expert occupational therapists at the Hand and Upper Limb Centre (HULC) is here to guide you through every step of the treatment process.
Taking small steps now can help protect your hands and wrists for the future, ensuring that you can maintain your everyday activities without pain or discomfort.
