Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects the wrist and hand. It is caused by compression of the median nerve that travels through the wrist to the hand.

The condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. If you suspect that you may have CTS, check for the following symptoms.

Symptom 1: Numbness or tingling in the fingers

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause numbness or tingling in the fingers, particularly in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. This is because the median nerve, which provides sensation to these fingers, passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist.

When the nerve is compressed, it can result in a sensation of pins and needles, tingling, or numbness in the affected fingers.

Symptom 2: Pain in the hand or wrist

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can also cause pain in the hand or wrist. The pain is typically felt in the front of the wrist and can radiate up the arm.

The pain may be mild or severe and can be worse at night or after activities that involve the use of the hand or wrist.

Symptom 3: Weakness in the hand

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects or do tasks that require fine motor skills, such as writing or typing.

This is because the muscles that control these movements are also supplied by the median nerve. When the nerve is compressed, it can result in weakness in the hand.

Symptom 4: Difficulty performing everyday tasks

If you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, you may find it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as opening jars, gripping objects, or tying shoelaces.

You may also have difficulty with activities that require fine motor control, such as using a computer mouse or typing on a keyboard.

Symptom 5: Swelling in the wrist

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause swelling in the wrist, particularly around the base of the hand. The swelling may be mild or severe and can be accompanied by a feeling of tightness or pressure in the wrist.

Symptom 6: Worsening symptoms at night

If you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, you may notice that your symptoms are worse at night. This is because many people sleep with their wrists in a flexed position, which can put pressure on the median nerve.

You may wake up with numbness or tingling in your fingers or a feeling of weakness in your hand.

Symptom 7: Stiffness in the fingers

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can cause stiffness in the fingers, particularly in the morning. You may find it difficult to make a fist or straighten your fingers without pain or discomfort.

Symptom 8: Sensitivity to cold

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can make your hand or fingers more sensitive to cold temperatures. You may notice that your fingers feel cold more easily or that they turn white or blue when exposed to cold.

Symptom 9: Weakening grip

If you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, you may notice that your grip strength is weak. You may have difficulty holding objects or doing tasks that require a strong grip.

Symptom 10: Reduced range of motion

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can also reduce your range of motion in the wrist and hand. You may find it difficult to move your wrist or hand in certain directions without pain or discomfort.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing one or more of these symptoms, you should consult with a healthcare professional.

Your healthcare provider can evaluate your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include exercises, splints, medications, or surgery.