Warning Signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Injuries, genetics, certain medical conditions, and repetitive hand use can all contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome. This common condition can cause pain, numbness, and weakness that interfere with everyday activities at home, work, and recreation. Recognizing the warning signs early can help prevent symptoms from worsening.

The most common signs of carpal tunnel syndrome are pain, tingling, and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. Because the condition affects the median nerve, the little finger is typically not involved.

Other symptoms may include:

• A feeling that your fingers are swollen, even when they are not
• Pain that travels from your hand up your arm
• Pain, tingling, and numbness that are often worse at night or when your hand is warm
• Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip or hold objects
• Shrinkage of the muscles at the base of the thumb in more advanced cases

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. This pressure on the nerve causes the characteristic numbness, tingling, and weakness associated with the condition.

Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect one or both hands and is one of the most common nerve compression disorders. Fortunately, early diagnosis and treatment can often relieve symptoms, restore hand function, and help prevent permanent nerve damage. Depending on the severity of the condition, treatment may include activity modification, splinting, anti-inflammatory medications, corticosteroid injections, or surgery to relieve pressure on the median nerve.

For more information, please call (860) 527-7161 or request an appointment online with one of our hand specialists at The Hand Center.