Summary

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve condition affecting the hand and wrist. When the median nerve is compressed passing through the carpal tunnel, it can cause hand numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness. The condition develops over time and is often associated with repetitive wrist and hand use or increased load. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is more common in women than in men. New cases were most frequently observed among females aged 45-54 and males aged 75-84.

The condition sometimes requires surgery. However, many people experience significant improvement with physiotherapy. 

The White House Clinic provides expert care and treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome in Sheffield, Chesterfield, and across all 14 of our locations in South Yorkshire, North East Derbyshire, and Nottinghamshire. 

An overview of carpal tunnel syndrome

Your carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway formed by bones and a strong ligament in the wrist. Tendons and the median nerve run through this narrow space to supply sensation and movement to the hand.

When pressure within the tunnel increases due to swelling, repetitive movement, or prolonged wrist positions, the median nerve is irritated. Symptoms may get worse over time or recur if you don’t address the underlying cause.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms

Some people notice symptoms during activities involving prolonged wrist positioning, while others experience symptoms at rest or during sleep. Symptoms vary in severity and may affect one or both hands. Common symptoms include:

• Hand numbness and tingling
• Wrist or hand pain, particularly at night
• Weakness or clumsiness in the hand
• Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine tasks
• Symptoms that worsen with repetitive wrist or hand use

Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome can result from repetitive wrist and hand movements, prolonged gripping, sustained bent wrist positions, and increased tissue load.

Activities involving the wrist and hand, such as gym training, gardening, and repetitive tasks, may exacerbate symptoms if not balanced with rest.  

When to see someone for carpal tunnel syndrome

If symptoms worsen or affect sleep, work, or daily activities, seek professional help. 

If you’re experiencing wrist nerve pain you can book a physiotherapy appointment at the White House Clinic without a referral. With faster access to expert care, you can return to activities sooner. 

What to do if you have carpal tunnel syndrome

It’s important to remain active, but seek assistance in modifying aggravating activities. Completely resting the hand and wrist for prolonged periods can lead to stiffness and weakness.

Simple strategies include adjusting wrist positions, reducing repetitive strain and varying tasks. A physiotherapist can provide tailored advice on movement, posture and activity modification to support nerve recovery.

Treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome treatment aims to reduce pressure on the nerve, improving wrist and hand function and addressing contributing factors. 

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy plays a central role in managing carpal tunnel syndrome. A physiotherapist will assess wrist movement, hand strength and nerve sensitivity before developing a personalised rehabilitation programme.

Diagnostic Ultrasound Assessment

At the White House Clinic, we have access to modern ultrasound equipment for a detailed assessment of your condition. This helps us support diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture may reduce pain and muscle tension associated with wrist nerve irritation.

Pilates and yoga

Pilates and yoga classes at our studio can support posture, strength and movement patterns. 

Who is affected by carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect adults of all ages. You are more likely to experience the condition if you are overweight, pregnant, have a job or hobbies that mean you bend your wrist or grip hard, or have previously injured your wrist. 

Reducing the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome returning

Carpal tunnel is painful and affects daily life and exercise. We understand how important it is to stop recurrence, and provide tailored guidance to help you avoid it. We suggest avoiding prolonged wrist positions, and following a progressive, bespoke plan to maintain hand and wrist strength and mobility. A progressive plan will ensure you manage the load effectively. 

With appropriate treatment and activity management, many people successfully manage carpal tunnel syndrome and maintain good hand and wrist function.

References

• ‍NHS
• ‍NICE