Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a neurological condition that affects many people, causing discomfort and even disability. It occurs when the median nerve—which controls sensation and movement in the hand—becomes compressed as it passes through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel.

Dr Vivek Loomba, a Senior Consultant Pain Physician at the Indian Spinal Injuries Centre, explains, “The carpal tunnel is surrounded by bones and ligaments, and when the median nerve is squeezed, it can cause a range of troubling symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, particularly affecting the thumb, index, and middle fingers.” These symptoms often occur during activities such as driving, holding objects, or even waking up at night due to discomfort.

While CTS can affect anyone, certain factors make people more vulnerable. Dr Loomba shares, “The primary cause of CTS is pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, which can occur for several reasons. Factors such as wrist injuries, underlying health conditions like arthritis or diabetes, repetitive hand movements, and even hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy) can contribute to the condition.”

Interestingly, women are more likely to experience CTS than men, and symptoms often develop gradually, becoming worse over time. Early detection and treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent permanent damage.

Prevention is key when it comes to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Dr Loomba recommends a series of simple exercises to help reduce the risk of developing CTS and alleviate discomfort in the early stages of the condition. Here are a few that can be done regularly:

1. Wrist Extension and Flexion

- Gently bend your wrist backwards (extension) and then forward (flexion) while keeping your arm straight.

- This stretches the muscles inside and outside your forearm, promoting flexibility.

2. Median Nerve Glide

- To help improve the mobility of the compressed median nerve, start by forming a fist.

- Extend your fingers and thumb, then bend your hand backwards toward your forearm while extending the thumb outward.

3. Tendon Glides

- These motions help stretch the tendons in the carpal tunnel.

- Activities include hooking your fingers, making a fist, and then straightening your fingers and thumb.

4. Wrist Lift

- Strengthen your forearm muscles by pressing one palm flat on a surface and using your other hand to push down.

- As you press down, lift your wrist and fingers, performing this exercise in repeated sets.

5. Hand Squeeze

- Using a soft rubber ball or even a rolled-up pair of socks, squeeze and release repeatedly.

- This strengthens the muscles in your forearm.

6. Wrist Stretch with Weights

- Hold a lightweight (such as a small can) in one hand and extend your arm straight.

- Slowly move your hand upward and backwards to stretch the flexor muscles in your forearm.

Dr Loomba explains, “These exercises, if performed regularly, can help maintain wrist mobility and reduce the pressure on the median nerve, especially for those who perform repetitive movements.”

If you're already experiencing symptoms of CTS, several pain management options can help. Dr Loomba shares some of the most common treatment options:

1. Rest and Immobilization

- Initially, it's crucial to rest the affected wrist and hand. Doctors often recommend wearing a wrist brace or splint, particularly at night, to avoid further irritation to the median nerve.

2. Cool Packs

- Applying cold packs can reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort in the wrist and hand.

3. Pain Medications

- Over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation and pain. In some cases, diuretics may be prescribed to reduce swelling.

4. Corticosteroid Injections

- For severe cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pressure on the median nerve. However, these are generally limited to a few injections per year to avoid side effects.

5. Oral Corticosteroids

- In rare instances, oral corticosteroids are prescribed for short-term relief.

6. Exercise and Physical Therapy

- Physical or occupational therapy plays a crucial role in improving wrist mobility and reducing symptoms through targeted stretching and strengthening exercises.

7. Surgery

- In cases where nonsurgical treatments fail, carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary. This procedure involves cutting the tissue around the wrist to relieve pressure on the median nerve. Recovery from surgery may take time, and physical therapy is often needed to regain full strength and function of the wrist.

Dr Loomba said “The treatment approach varies depending on the severity of the condition and the person’s needs. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential to ensure personalized care.”

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