Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Conditions, Symptoms, & Causes

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve—which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand—becomes compressed at the wrist. This pressure can result from a variety of factors including, but not limited to: 

• Repetitive hand or wrist movements such as typing, assembly line work, or using tools.
• Health conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders.
• Pregnancy-related swelling
• Wrist injuries or fractures that narrow the carpal tunnel space
• Genetically, some people have smaller carpal tunnel 

Understanding the root cause of the condition is key to effective treatment. If you continue to experience symptoms like tingling, numbness, or hand weakness, early diagnosis can help prevent nerve damage. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops gradually and often starts with subtle signs such as: 

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
• Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to  grip objects
• Pain that worsens at night
• Burning sensation in the wrist or hand that may extend up the arm
• Frequent dropping of items due to loss of hand strength or sensation 

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent symptoms from becoming severe or permanent. If you continue experiencing these signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, our medical experts are here to help you find lasting pain relief. 

If you’re experiencing ongoing hand discomfort, it’s important not to ignore the warning signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. You should seek professional medical advice and schedule a medical evaluation if you notice: 

• Persistent numbness, tingling, or pain in your fingers, hand, or wrist
• Difficulty gripping objects or frequent hand weakness
• Symptoms interrupt your sleep or worsen during daily activities
• No relief from home remedies like wrist braces or rest
• Symptoms that are getting worse over time

Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent permanent nerve damage. Our board-certified, fellowship-trained medical experts use advanced diagnostics to accurately identify the cause of your symptoms and create a treatment plan tailored to your specific diagnosis. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be managed effectively with the right treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, both non-surgical and minimally invasive treatment options may be recommended. 

Non-Surgical Treatment: 

• Lifestyle and activity changes – modifying repetitive hand movements or improving ergonomics can help reduce strain the hand or wrist. 

• Wrist bracing or splinting – wrist splints keep the hand in a neutral position to relieve pressure on the median nerve. 

• Physical or occupational therapy - treatments like stretching, strengthening, and nerve-gliding exercises can improve function and relieve pain and discomfort. 

• Steroid injections – corticosteroid injections can provide temporary relief by reducing swelling around the nerve. 

Surgical Treatment:

• Carpel tunnel release surgery – when conservative treatment methods don’t reduce discomfort or pain, minimally invasive carpal tunnel release surgery can help relieve pressure on the median nerve.