This page summarises publicly available NHS information for educational purposes only. It is not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is pressure on the median nerve at the wrist, causing tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand — especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Symptoms are often worse at night. It's common in pregnancy, after wrist injury, and in people who do repetitive hand work. Most cases improve with wrist splints and activity changes; some need steroid injections or surgery.
When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP
- Tingling, numbness, or pain in the hand is getting worse or not going away.
- Symptoms are waking you from sleep regularly.
- You notice weakness or reduced grip in the affected hand.
- Home treatment (splints, activity changes) has not helped after a few weeks.
- You have diabetes, thyroid problems, or are pregnant and symptoms are new.
- You have sudden severe pain, swelling, or loss of function after an injury.
Self-care information from NHS
- Wear a wrist splint at night to keep the wrist in a neutral position — available from pharmacies.
- Cut down on activities that bend or strain the wrist (typing, vibrating tools, instruments).
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks and stretch the wrist and fingers.
- Adjust your keyboard, mouse, or workstation to keep wrists straight.
- Try gentle nerve-gliding exercises — a physiotherapist can teach these.
- Take over-the-counter pain relief as advised by a pharmacist.
- Use a cold pack for short-term symptom relief if the wrist feels hot or swollen.
Common questions
What are the first signs of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Early signs are tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, often waking you at night. You may shake your hand to relieve symptoms. As it progresses, grip weakness and pain can develop.
Does carpal tunnel go away on its own?
Mild carpal tunnel, especially in pregnancy, often improves without surgery. Wrist splints worn at night, ergonomic changes at work, and gentle exercises help many cases. Persistent symptoms may need steroid injections or surgery.
Is carpal tunnel surgery effective?
Yes — surgery to release the carpal tunnel is one of the most successful operations, with most people getting significant relief. It's usually done as a day case under local anaesthetic. Recovery takes a few weeks for light use, longer for heavy work.
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This page is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your individual situation. NorMed organises publicly available NHS information and is not affiliated with the NHS.