What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition where a nerve in the wrist becomes compressed or squeezed.

A major nerve (the median nerve) travels through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. When this space becomes tight or swollen, the nerve is pressed on, causing symptoms in the hand.

Common Symptoms

People with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience:

Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
Pins and needles, especially at night
Hand pain or aching
Weak grip or dropping objects
Waking at night and needing to shake the hand for relief

Why Does It Happen?

Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused or worsened by:

Repetitive hand use
Swelling of tissues in the wrist
Pregnancy
Diabetes or thyroid conditions
Arthritis
Previous wrist injury
Often, there is no single clear cause.

Is It Serious?

If treated early, symptoms can often be managed.
If left untreated for a long time, nerve pressure can lead to permanent numbness or weakness.

How Is It Treated?

Treatment depends on severity and may include:

Wrist splints
Activity modification
Injections
Surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve

Early assessment leads to better outcomes.