Carpal Tunnel SyndromeSymptoms, Causes & Support

Common symptoms

• Tingling, numbness or burning in thumb, index and middle fingers
• Night pain or waking with hand symptoms
• Reduced grip, dropping objects, clumsiness
• Symptoms triggered by sustained or repetitive wrist positions

Typical contributors

• Repetitive or prolonged wrist flexion/extension
• Prolonged keyboard/mouse use without breaks
• Swelling or fluid retention (e.g., pregnancy)
• Other health factors (e.g., diabetes, thyroid)

Wrist positioning

Keep wrists neutral where possible; avoid long periods at end‑range flexion or extension.

Regular breaks

Short, frequent micro‑breaks help reduce irritation. Try 30–60 seconds every 20–30 minutes.

Night splint

A neutral‑position wrist splint at night can reduce symptoms in many cases.

Work‑related factors

• High repetition or forceful gripping
• Prolonged keyboard/mouse without breaks
• Hand tools with vibration

Personal/medical factors

• Pregnancy, fluid retention
• Diabetes, thyroid conditions
• Previous wrist injury or osteoarthritis

Differential diagnosis

• Cervical radiculopathy (neck nerve irritation)
• Proximal median nerve irritation (pronator syndrome)
• Ulnar neuropathy (ring/little finger symptoms)

Clinical assessment

• Symptom pattern (night pain, fingers affected)
• Provocation with sustained wrist flexion/extension
• Grip strength, dexterity and sensation checks

Investigations (when indicated)

• Nerve conduction studies/EMG to confirm severity
• Ultrasound for tunnel/nerve changes
• Blood tests if systemic drivers suspected

These are considered for persistent or atypical cases in discussion with your clinician.

Keyboard & mouse

Keep wrists neutral. Use a wrist‑friendly mouse; bring the mouse close to reduce reach.

Breaks & pacing

Micro‑breaks of 30–60 seconds every 20–30 minutes. Alternate tasks when possible.

Setup & posture

Forearms supported, elbows ~90°, screen at eye level, shoulders relaxed.

Tendon glides

Open hand → hook fist → full fist → straight fist. 5–8 reps, 2–3×/day if comfortable.

Median nerve glide (gentle)

Elbow by side, wrist/fingers extend slightly, then relax. Stop if symptoms increase—seek guidance.

Grip & forearm

Soft putty/sponge squeezes; light wrist curls. 2–3 sets of 8–12 within symptom tolerance.

Conservative care

• Education, ergonomics and pacing
• Night splint in neutral wrist
• Progressive exercises (tendon/nerve mobility, strength)
• Medical input for pain relief if required

When is surgery considered?

• Persistent symptoms despite 6–12 weeks of care
• Progressive weakness or sensory loss
• Severe nerve conduction findings

Post‑op rehab focuses on wound care, gradual loading and return to function.

Conservative care

Many improve within 4–12 weeks with ergonomics, splinting and graded exercise.

After surgery (desk work)

Light desk work often 1–2 weeks; symptom improvement continues over months.

After surgery (manual work)

2–6+ weeks depending on wound healing and task demands—guided by your team.