Feeling the Pressure? It Might Be Time to Tunnel Out: Here's What You Need to Know About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

 A ProVital Physiotherapy Guide

Have you ever feel numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand and wrist, especially at night or after long hours at the computer using mouse click? You might be experiencing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).

And no, it’s not just a problem for factory workers or people who type all day. CTS can affect anyone, and early attention can make all the difference in preventing long-term discomfort or nerve damage.

Let’s break down what it is, why it happens, and most importantly, what you can do about it.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from your forearm into the palm of your hand gets compressed at the wrist. This happens in a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, made up of bones and ligaments. When that space gets tight (due to swelling or inflammation), the nerve gets squeezed.

What Does It Feel Like?

You may notice:

• Tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger

• Pain or burning in the palm or wrist, especially at night or upon waking

• Weak grip strength—objects may slip out of your hands

• Hand fatigue during repetitive tasks (typing, using tools, even driving)

• Symptoms may travel up the arm in more advanced cases
  

These symptoms often start gradually and worsen over time if left untreated.

Why You? Why Now?

CTS is often related to repetitive hand or wrist use, but there’s more to it than that. Here are some of the most common causes and contributing factors:

• Repetitive motion: Typing, assembly work, or frequent phone use

• Poor wrist posture: Bent wrists while sleeping or working

• Medical conditions: Diabetes, thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis

• Pregnancy: Fluid retention can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel

• Genetics: Some people simply have a smaller carpal tunnel

What Helps?

The good news is that early intervention can often resolve symptoms without the need for surgery.

1.     Rest and Activity Modification

a.     Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks

b.     Keep wrists in a neutral position (not bent up or down)

c.      Use ergonomic tools: wrist rests, vertical mouse

2.     Ice and Anti-Inflammatories

a.     Applying ice to the wrist for 10–15 minutes can reduce inflammation

b.     Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may also help

3.     Physiotherapy

a.     Gentle nerve gliding exercises and stretching can help improve mobility and reduce compression

b.     A physiotherapist can also teach you proper posture and movement strategies

Can You Prevent It?

To a certain extent, yes! These habits can go a long way:

• Keep wrists straight, especially during typing or tool use

• Take micro-breaks every 20–30 minutes when working with your hands

• Avoid sleeping with wrists bent

• Stay active and monitor conditions like diabetes or arthritis

When Should You See a Physiotherapist?

If you're experiencing symptoms that last more than a few weeks, interfere with your sleep or daily activities, or keep getting worse, it’s time to seek help.

Early treatment = faster recovery and a lower chance of permanent nerve damage.

Words from Us

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is more common than you might think, especially in our tech-driven world. The earlier you recognize the signs and take steps to manage it, the better the outcome.

Whether you're a mechanic, barista, office worker, or new parent, your hands are your tools. Don’t ignore the warning signs. A few small changes today can save you a lot of discomfort later.

References:

1. Padua L, Coraci D, Erra C, et al. (2016) Carpal tunnel syndrome: clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Lancet Neurology.15(12), 1273-1284.

2. Aroori S, Spence RA. (2008) Carpal tunnel syndrome. Ulster Med J, 77(1):6–17.

3. Sevy, J., Sina, R., & Varacallo, M. (2023). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. StatPearls [Internet].

4. Joshi , A., Patel , K., Mohamed, A., Oak , S., Zhang , M., Hsiung , H., . . . Patel, U. (2022). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Pathophysiology and Comprehensive Guidelines for Clinical Evaluation and Treatment. Cureus.