Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Information reviewed by: Dr Foo Gen Lin | Last updated: Feb 20, 2026
Struggling with hand numbness or wrist pain? Dr Foo Gen Lin provides detailed assessment to determine if it's Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and offers personalised treatment to help you return to daily activities with comfort and confidence.
MBBS (University of London) | MMed (Ortho) | FRCSEd (Ortho) | FAMS (Ortho)
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed
as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm
side of the wrist. This compression may result from inflammation, repetitive strain, or
certain medical conditions.
The median nerve, which runs from the
forearm into the hand, controls sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers.
Common Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
The
main symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include
tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, particularly in the thumb, index, and
middle fingers. These symptoms often worsen at night or after prolonged use of the hand.
They may include:
- A sensation of pins and needles in the fingers
- Numbness that comes and goes, especially during sleep
- Pain in the hand or wrist that may extend up the forearm
- A tendency to drop items due to reduced hand strength
- Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or writing
- Shrinking or thinning of the muscles at the base of the thumb in more serious cases
What Are the Common Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Causes?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can result from a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve within the wrist. These causes may include:
- Repetitive hand or wrist movements, especially in jobs involving prolonged use of keyboards or tools
- Poor wrist posture or ergonomics during work or sleep
- Pregnancy-related fluid retention, which may increase pressure on the median nerve
- Medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or rheumatoid arthritis
- Previous wrist injuries or anatomical differences that reduce space in the carpal tunnel
In many cases, no single cause can be identified, and more than one factor may be
involved.
If left untreated, CTS can cause permanent nerve damage,
leading to ongoing numbness, muscle weakness, and reduced hand function. Prolonged compression of
the median nerve increases the risk of lasting damage, especially to the thumb muscles.
Early diagnosis and timely treatment help preserve strength and dexterity.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Test & Diagnosis
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is diagnosed through a step-by-step process that includes clinical evaluation and specialised tests to assess nerve function and rule out other conditions.
This process typically involves:
- Symptom review – Patterns of hand and wrist discomfort are identified, including when symptoms occur and what may trigger them.
- Medical history – Underlying health conditions, previous wrist injuries, and occupational risks are taken into account.
- Physical examination – Hand strength and sensation are evaluated using tests such as Tinel's sign and Phalen's manoeuvre.
- Diagnostic testing – Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) may be used to assess how well the nerves and muscles are working, particularly when the diagnosis is uncertain or symptoms are more severe.
What Are the Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome depends on how severe the symptoms are and how long they have been present. Milder cases are usually managed with non-surgical methods, while persistent or worsening symptoms may require medical procedures.
1. Non-Surgical Treatment Options
Conservative treatments aim to relieve pressure on the median nerve and reduce inflammation, particularly in the early stages of the condition.
Activity Modification
Changes to daily habits and hand use can reduce strain on the wrist. This may involve limiting repetitive movements, improving hand posture, or adjusting workstation ergonomics to reduce nerve compression.
Wrist Splinting
Wearing a splint, particularly at night, helps to keep the wrist in a neutral position. This can relieve pressure on the median nerve during sleep and reduce symptoms such as numbness or tingling upon waking.
Pain Management
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, may be used short-term to relieve discomfort and reduce inflammation. While helpful in managing symptoms, they do not address the root cause and are typically used as a supportive measure alongside other treatments.
Physiotherapy
Specific exercises guided by a physiotherapist can help restore flexibility, improve strength in the
wrist and forearm, and support smooth movement of the median nerve.
Nerve-gliding exercises, such as gently bending
and straightening the fingers while holding the wrist in various positions, may also be included to
reduce pressure and irritation around the nerve.
Injection-Based Therapies
Injections may be used to reduce inflammation or support tissue healing in cases where symptoms persist despite basic measures.
- Corticosteroid injections, also known as H&L injections, are commonly used to reduce inflammation within the carpal tunnel and may offer temporary relief.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) may support tissue healing by delivering a concentration of growth factors to the affected area.
2. Surgical Treatment
Surgery is typically considered when non-surgical treatments do not provide adequate relief, or if nerve function continues to decline. The goal of surgery is to release pressure on the median nerve and prevent long-term damage.
Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
This minimally invasive technique uses a small camera and specialised instruments inserted
through one or two wrist incisions to cut the ligament pressing on the median nerve,
creating more space within the carpal tunnel.
Endoscopic release may result in less postoperative discomfort and allow a quicker return to
normal activities compared to open surgery.
Estimated recovery: Most people return to light activities within 1 to 2
weeks, with full recovery typically in 4 to 6 weeks with rehabilitation.
Open Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery
This procedure involves making a single incision at the base of the palm to directly access and cut
the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve. It provides clear visualisation of the area and
may be preferred in more severe or recurrent cases, or when anatomical differences are present.
Estimated recovery: Most people return to light activities within 2 to 3 weeks,
with full recovery taking up to 6 to 8 weeks with rehabilitation.
When Should You Seek Medical Attention?
You should seek medical attention if symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome persist, worsen, or
begin to interfere with daily activities.
While occasional tingling or hand fatigue may resolve with rest, the following signs may
indicate the need for professional assessment:
- Symptoms that do not improve with basic self-care measures, such as rest or activity changes
- Numbness, tingling, or pain that occurs regularly, especially at night
- Difficulty performing tasks that require grip strength or fine finger movements
- A tendency to drop objects or noticeable weakness in the hand
- Loss of sensation or visible thinning at the base of the thumb
Early evaluation allows for timely treatment, which can help prevent long-term nerve damage and support better recovery outcomes.
Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Be Prevented?
While not all cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be prevented, the risk may be reduced by limiting strain on the wrists and maintaining proper hand ergonomics:
- Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks
- Keep the wrists in a neutral position during work and sleep
- Use ergonomic tools best suited to your needs, such as split keyboards, vertical mice, wrist rests, and adjustable chairs, to support proper wrist and hand alignment
- Perform stretching and strengthening exercises for the hands and forearms, such as wrist flexor and extensor stretches, nerve-gliding movements, and finger tendon glides
Many people wait too long to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, hoping the symptoms will go away on their own. Early intervention not only helps to ease discomfort but also preserves hand function and prevents lasting nerve damage.
Dr Foo Gen Lin
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The best approach to treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome depends on symptom severity and the underlying cause. Mild cases may improve with wrist splinting, activity modification, or physiotherapy, while persistent or worsening symptoms may require corticosteroid injections or surgery to relieve nerve pressure. No single method works for everyone, and treatment is typically tailored to the individual's needs. If symptoms continue or interfere with daily function, it is important to seek medical advice from a doctor or hand specialist.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome may improve on its own if symptoms are mild and related to temporary factors like overuse or pregnancy-related swelling. Natural strategies such as wrist splinting, activity changes, and nerve-gliding exercises may support recovery. However, ongoing or worsening symptoms are unlikely to resolve without intervention. If symptoms do not improve or start to affect daily activities, a medical review is recommended to avoid long-term nerve damage.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is commonly translated as “腕管道综合征” in Chinese. It describes a condition where the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, leading to symptoms such as hand numbness, tingling, or weakness.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome during pregnancy may be relieved by wearing a wrist splint at night, avoiding prolonged or repetitive hand use, and performing gentle wrist stretches or nerve-gliding exercises. Symptoms are often linked to fluid retention and typically improve after delivery. If discomfort persists or hand function is affected, it is advisable to consult your obstetrician or a hand specialist to assess for more significant nerve compression.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is triggered by increased pressure in the carpal tunnel that compresses the median nerve. Common triggers include repetitive hand movements, poor wrist posture, pregnancy-related swelling, and medical conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid issues. Multiple factors often contribute, and the exact cause is not always clear.
Massage may help relieve mild Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms by improving circulation, reducing muscle tension, and easing soft tissue tightness around the wrist. However, it does not treat the underlying compression of the median nerve. While some people experience short-term relief, massage alone is unlikely to resolve ongoing or moderate symptoms. It is best to consult your doctor, physiotherapist, or hand specialist to determine whether massage is suitable for your condition.
Vitamin B6 is the most commonly studied vitamin in relation to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Some small studies suggest it may support nerve function and reduce symptoms, particularly when a deficiency is present. Deficiencies in B12 or other B-complex vitamins have also been linked to nerve-related issues. However, evidence remains limited, and supplements should not replace medical treatment. It is best to consult your doctor or hand specialist to determine if supplementation is suitable for your circumstances.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is most common in adults aged 40 to 60 but can also occur in younger individuals with repetitive hand use, certain medical conditions, or during pregnancy. Age-related changes may increase risk over time, but symptoms are not limited to older adults. If you experience signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, early diagnosis and treatment are important to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of long-term nerve damage.
The best sleeping position for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is one that keeps the wrist straight and in a neutral position. Sleeping with the wrist bent or tucked under the body may increase nerve pressure and worsen symptoms. Using a night splint to keep the wrist aligned and avoiding pressure on the hands during sleep may help reduce night-time tingling or numbness. It is best to follow your doctor's or hand specialist's guidance for positioning and support.
The first signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome often include tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. These symptoms may come and go, especially at night or during activities involving wrist movement. Early signs can also include hand fatigue or difficulty gripping small objects. If symptoms appear regularly or begin to affect hand function, it is important to seek early medical evaluation to prevent nerve damage.
Both heat and cold may help relieve Carpal Tunnel Syndrome symptoms, depending on the individual and the stage of discomfort. Cold therapy may reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain, while heat can relax tight muscles and improve blood flow. They are often used short-term for symptom relief but do not address the root cause. It is best to follow your doctor's or hand specialist's advice on which approach is appropriate for your condition.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is not automatically classified as a disability, but severe or untreated cases that cause lasting functional impairment may be considered disabling. In Singapore, CTS is recognised as a serious work-related musculoskeletal disorder and may qualify for compensation under the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA) if linked to occupational causes. Eligibility for disability support depends on symptom severity, work impact, and medical assessment by a specialist such as an orthopaedic surgeon or hand specialist.
Squeezing a stress ball is not typically recommended for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and may worsen symptoms by increasing pressure on the median nerve. Strengthening exercises are usually introduced only after symptoms improve and should be guided by a physiotherapist. In the early stages, nerve-gliding and gentle stretching are often more suitable. It is best to consult your doctor, physiotherapist, or hand specialist to determine if this exercise is appropriate for your condition.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is not a form of arthritis. It is a nerve compression condition caused by pressure on the median nerve at the wrist. However, arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, may contribute to or worsen it by causing swelling around the wrist. While they can occur together, they are separate conditions. If you experience symptoms such as hand numbness, tingling, or weakness, seek a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Five common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include tingling in the fingers, numbness in the thumb and nearby fingers, hand or wrist pain, weakness or reduced grip strength, and difficulty with fine hand movements. Symptoms may occur more often at night or with repetitive hand use. If these signs become frequent or interfere with daily tasks, early medical evaluation is important to confirm the cause and prevent long-term nerve damage.