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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

by | Apr 18, 2025 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is one of the most common nerve compression conditions affecting the upper extremity. It impacts millions of people each year, often interfering with work, daily function, and sleep. Whether you spend your days typing at a desk or using your hands for manual labor, understanding CTS is essential for early intervention and preventing long-term nerve damage. Carpal Tunnel Symptoms and Treatment Options.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the symptoms, diagnosis process, conservative care options, and surgical interventions for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome so you can make informed decisions about your health.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the palm side of your wrist. It houses the median nerve and tendons that control your fingers and thumb. When this tunnel becomes narrowed or inflamed, it can compress the median nerve, leading to the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms of CTS can range from mild to severe and usually develop gradually. They often start in one hand but can affect both over time.

Typical symptoms include:

  • Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger
  • Burning or shock-like sensations in the hand or forearm
  • Weakness in the hand, especially when gripping or pinching
  • Symptoms that worsen at night or after repetitive hand use
  • Difficulty performing fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt or holding small objects

It’s important to note that CTS symptoms can mimic other conditions like cervical radiculopathy or pronator teres syndrome, so a proper evaluation is key.

Diagnosing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Diagnosis begins with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Your provider will look for signs of nerve compression and test the function of your hand and wrist.

Common diagnostic tools include:

  • Phalen’s Test: Flexing the wrists together to reproduce symptoms.
  • Tinel’s Sign: Tapping over the median nerve to elicit tingling.
  • Durkan’s Test: Direct compression over the carpal tunnel.
  • Electrodiagnostic Testing (EMG/NCS): Measures the electrical conduction of the median nerve to assess severity.
  • Ultrasound or MRI (less common): May be used in atypical or complicated cases.

Conservative Treatment Options

Many cases of CTS can be managed without surgery, especially if caught early. Conservative care is often the first line of treatment and may include a combination of the following:

1. Wrist Splinting

Wearing a wrist splint—especially at night—can help keep the wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve.

2. Activity Modification

Avoiding repetitive wrist motions and taking frequent breaks during high-hand-use activities can significantly reduce symptom flare-ups.

3. Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Work

Providers trained in musculoskeletal conditions may use manual therapy techniques to release tension in surrounding tissues, improve mobility, and decrease nerve irritation.

4. Nerve Gliding Exercises

These specific movements are designed to mobilize the median nerve and improve circulation through the carpal tunnel.

5. Dry Needling and Shockwave Therapy

These evidence-based modalities can address underlying myofascial tightness or chronic tendon irritation that may contribute to nerve compression.

6. Ergonomic Adjustments

Changing your workstation setup or modifying how you use your hands can help prevent further aggravation.

7. Anti-inflammatory Interventions

Topical or oral anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), and in some cases corticosteroid injections, may be used to reduce local swelling and pressure.

Conservative treatment is usually trialed for 4–6 weeks before considering more invasive interventions.

When Is Surgery Necessary?

If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, or if there is evidence of significant nerve damage (such as muscle wasting or severe weakness), surgery may be recommended.

Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery is the most common procedure. It involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. This can be done through:

  • Open Release: A small incision is made in the palm.
  • Endoscopic Release: A camera and small tools are used through tiny incisions, offering faster recovery times.

Post-Surgical Recovery:

  • Most people return to light use in 2–3 weeks.
  • Full recovery can take up to 3 months or longer, depending on severity and occupation.
  • Physical therapy may help restore function and prevent scar tissue buildup.

Final Thoughts

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is treatable—especially with early intervention. At our clinic, we specialize in non-surgical management of nerve entrapment syndromes using a comprehensive approach, including manual therapy, nerve glides, dry needling, and advanced technologies like shockwave therapy.

If you’re dealing with hand numbness, wrist pain, or suspect Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, don’t wait until symptoms worsen. We can help guide you through the most effective treatment options based on your lifestyle, severity, and goals.