Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes pinched. It can lead to pain, numbness, and loss of feeling in the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. The discomfort can be bothersome both day and night, but proper relief can relieve symptoms.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve in the wrist is subjected to pressure in the so-called carpal tunnel. When the pressure in the tunnel increases, the nerve can become irritated or pinched, leading to numbness, pain, and sometimes weakness in the hand.
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist through which the median nerve and several tendons pass. If the space in the tunnel narrows or the tissues swell, pressure on the nerve increases. This can affect both the sensation in the fingers and the grip of the hand.
Common causes & risk factors
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure in the carpal tunnel increases and the median nerve becomes pinched. The causes can vary, but an anatomically narrow carpal tunnel is a common risk factor and can sometimes be hereditary.
One-sided work where the wrist is often kept bent or loaded in angled positions can also contribute to the development of the problem. This applies, for example, to crafts, repetitive work, or prolonged computer work.
Hormonal changes, especially during pregnancy, can increase the risk because fluid retention can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel. The risk of developing the condition also increases with age.
Symptoms
- Numbness and loss of sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
- Pain and aches, often worse at night
- Burning sensation that may radiate up the forearm
- Weakness in the hand and difficulty gripping objects
- Stiffness and problems with fine motor skills
- Swelling sensation in the hand and fingers
The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome often occur when pressure on the median nerve increases or when the wrist is held in bent positions for an extended period of time.
When does carpal tunnel syndrome hurt the most?
The pain and numbness of carpal tunnel syndrome often occur in situations where the wrist is stressed or held in the same position for a long time.
Overnight
Many people find that numbness and pain worsen at night when the wrist is bent during sleep.
During repetitive hand movements
Work or activities where the hand is used repeatedly can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel.
During prolonged computer work
When the wrist is kept bent for a long time, the discomfort may gradually increase.
When grasping objects
Holding tools, phones, or other objects for extended periods of time can worsen symptoms.
When should you seek medical attention?
Seek medical attention if the symptoms persist for several weeks despite relief, if you experience a significant loss of sensation, or if your grip strength in your hand deteriorates. You should also seek medical attention if numbness and pain affect your ability to use your hand in everyday life.
Recommended protection & support
In the case of carpal tunnel syndrome, the right protection and relief can contribute to reduced symptoms and increased comfort in everyday life and work. A wrist support can help keep the wrist in a neutral position and thereby reduce pressure on the median nerve.
For the night, a special night support can be effective as it prevents the wrist from bending during sleep. Relief wrist guards can also help relieve pain and prevent the discomfort from worsening during work or activity.
See all braces and supports that can relieve carpal tunnel syndrome
Related injuries
For more information about the hand and wrist, you can read more in the Injury Guide Hand & Wrist. You can also go to the Injury Guide's main page to read about other injuries and symptoms.
