Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

If you’ve ever felt tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hand—especially at night or after using a computer—you may be experiencing signs of carpal tunnel syndrome. It’s a common condition, but when left untreated, it can start to affect daily life, sleep, and work.

At Hands for Living, we support individuals who want relief without jumping straight to surgery. With the right plan, carpal tunnel symptoms can often be managed through conservative treatment and personalised hand therapy.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve—which runs from your forearm into your hand—becomes compressed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments. When swelling or tightness reduces space in this tunnel, it puts pressure on the nerve.

This pressure often builds gradually, particularly in people who perform repetitive hand movements, such as typing, assembly line work, or gripping tools. Certain health conditions—like diabetes, arthritis, or pregnancy—can also increase your risk.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

• Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers
• Hand weakness, particularly when gripping or pinching
• Pain or burning that may radiate up the arm
• Symptoms that worsen at night or after certain tasks

You might find yourself shaking your hand out to try and get relief. That’s a common coping behaviour—but it’s also a sign your body is telling you something needs to change.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Wrist Splinting at Night

Wearing a wrist splint while you sleep helps keep your wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve. Many people find this simple solution greatly improves nighttime symptoms.

Ergonomic Adjustments

Modifying how you use your hands during work or daily activities can reduce stress on the wrist. This might include:

• Using an ergonomic keyboard or mouse
• Adjusting your chair and desk height
• Taking short, regular breaks to stretch

Small changes can make a big difference when repeated daily.

Hand Therapy

Our therapists at Hands for Living offer several non-invasive techniques to reduce pressure and restore function:

• Manual therapy to mobilise soft tissues and reduce nerve irritation
• Targeted exercises to strengthen supportive muscles and improve flexibility
• Ultrasound therapy to reduce inflammation and support tissue healing

These approaches are personalised based on the severity of your symptoms and the demands of your daily life.

Medication and Injections

Anti-inflammatory medication may help reduce pain and swelling. In more persistent cases, a corticosteroid injection may be recommended to reduce pressure on the nerve. These can provide temporary relief, but are often paired with therapy to address the underlying cause.

Surgical Intervention (If Needed)

If conservative treatment isn’t enough, carpal tunnel release surgery may be considered. This procedure involves cutting the ligament pressing on the median nerve. Recovery varies by individual, and hand therapy is often recommended after surgery to restore mobility and strength.

Why Early Treatment Matters

The earlier carpal tunnel syndrome is addressed, the more effective non-surgical treatments tend to be. Ignoring symptoms can lead to nerve damage, muscle loss, or long-term weakness in the hand.

That’s why it’s important to listen to your body—and get support sooner rather than later.

Support That’s Personalised to You

At Hands for Living, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment. Every hand is different. Our experienced hand therapists work with you to understand what’s causing your symptoms and develop a plan that fits your lifestyle.

Carpal tunnel doesn’t have to take over your day. With the right tools and the right guidance, you can return to work, sleep, and everyday activities with less pain—and more control.