Do you experience frequent hand pain, tingling, and numbness? This may be a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome, a common problem that affects millions of people every year.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm to your hand, becomes compressed or squeezed in the wrist.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist that protects the median nerve as well as several tendons. If the tunnel becomes too narrow or if the tendons become inflamed, they can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to symptoms such as:.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Pain in the hand, wrist, and forearm
Tingling or numbness in the fingers (usually the thumb, index, and middle finger)
Burning sensation in the hand and fingers
Weakness in the hand and difficulty grasping or holding objects

Carpal tunnel syndrome typically occurs in the dominant hand and is more common in women than men. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:.

Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive hand and wrist movements (e.g. typing, using a mouse, playing an instrument)
Use of vibrating tools
Obesity
Pregnancy
Trauma to the wrist or hand
Arthritis
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. They may suggest a physical exam or imaging tests to rule out other conditions.

If carpal tunnel syndrome is suspected, they may recommend a nerve conduction study to measure the electrical activity in your nerves.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you’re diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, there are several treatment options available:.

Resting the affected hand and wrist
Using a wrist splint to keep the wrist in a neutral position
Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or naproxen
Applying ice or heat to the affected area
Doing stretching exercises to relieve pressure on the median nerve
Physiotherapy to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility
Surgery to relieve pressure on the median nerve (this is usually reserved for severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments)

If you think you may have carpal tunnel syndrome, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the median nerve.

With proper treatment, most people with carpal tunnel syndrome can find relief from their symptoms and regain full use of their hand and wrist.

Preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you want to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from occurring, there are several steps you can take:.

Take frequent breaks from repetitive hand and wrist movements
Practice proper ergonomics when using a computer or other tools
Use tools with padded handles and wrist supports
Stretch your hands and wrists regularly
Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid smoking, which can decrease blood flow to the hand and wrist

By taking these steps, you can reduce your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome and keep your hands and wrists in good condition for years to come.