Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling and pain in the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger. It occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel at the wrist. Early recognition and appropriate management can reduce symptoms and improve hand function.
Recognising the symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle or radial half of the ring finger.
- Pain or burning in the wrist that can radiate up the forearm.
- Night symptoms that wake you from sleep and are relieved by shaking the hand.
- Weakness or clumsiness when gripping small objects or performing fine tasks.
- Symptoms provoked by repetitive wrist movements or prolonged gripping.
Common causes and risk factors
- Repetitive hand and wrist activities such as typing, assembly work, or prolonged gripping.
- Postural and ergonomic factors that increase pressure on the wrist.
- Medical conditions including diabetes, thyroid disease, pregnancy and inflammatory conditions.
- Previous wrist injury or swelling within the carpal tunnel.
Physiotherapy treatment options
- Education and activity modification to reduce aggravating tasks and improve wrist posture.
- Splinting (usually a neutral wrist splint at night) to reduce pressure on the median nerve.
- Manual therapy to address wrist, forearm and cervical mobility where indicated.
- Neural gliding exercises to improve nerve mobility and reduce sensitivity.
- Targeted strengthening and motor control for the wrist and hand once pain settles.
- Ergonomic advice for workstation setup, tool use and task variation to prevent recurrence.
- Progressive loading and return‑to‑activity planning to restore function safely.
Self‑care you can start today
- Modify tasks that require prolonged wrist flexion or forceful gripping.
- Take regular breaks and vary hand positions during repetitive work.
- Use a neutral wrist splint at night if symptoms wake you.
- Apply ice to reduce local swelling after heavy use.
- Gentle nerve gliding and wrist mobility exercises as advised by your therapist.
When to see a GP or specialist
- If symptoms are severe, progressive, or causing significant weakness.
- If conservative care does not improve symptoms after an appropriate trial.
- If there are red flags such as sudden loss of hand function or signs of other neurological conditions.
Conclusion
Carpal tunnel syndrome is common but often responds well to early, targeted physiotherapy that combines education, splinting, manual therapy and progressive exercise. If you have persistent numbness, tingling or weakness in your hand, a focused assessment will help determine the best plan to reduce symptoms and restore function.
Call to action If you’re experiencing hand or wrist symptoms, book an assessment at Ellie Physiotherapy & Wellness
Call 07539 441 325 to book an appointment.