Learn about the symptoms, causes, self-check and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.
The carpal tunnel is a small passage surrounded by the bones and ligaments of the wrist. Tendons and blood vessels pass through this tunnel on their way to the fingers. When the tunnel narrows or the pressure inside it rises for various reasons and compresses the median nerve, the condition is called carpal tunnel syndrome. The palm and fingers become numb and sensation changes, so you may drop things you are holding. If left untreated for a long time, sensory and motor function can be lost, so early treatment is very important.
01
Tingling or throbbing pain in the wrist
02
Numbness in the palm and in all fingers except the little finger
03
Pain makes hand and wrist movements feel awkward
04
Pain so severe that it disturbs sleep at night
Degenerative changes in the wrist ligaments due to aging
Repetitive and excessive use of the wrist
Use of electronic devices such as computers and smartphones
Compression of the median nerve due to a wrist fracture or dislocation
Complications of infections and inflammatory diseases
Tinel's Test: Make a fist, then press the protruding wrist tendons with the other hand to check for pain or numbness.
Phalen's Test: Point the fingers of both hands downward and press the backs of the hands together. Hold this position for 60 seconds and check for numbness.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is usually diagnosed by examining the affected hand and wrist. To confirm that the problem is carpal tunnel syndrome, especially when surgery is being considered, the doctor may perform a nerve conduction study or advanced imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or ultrasound.
TREATMENT
Mild symptoms can improve with sufficient rest and medication such as anti-inflammatory drugs.
However, if numbness and pain are severe enough to limit everyday tasks such as using chopsticks or opening lids, surgery is performed.
Mild symptoms can improve with sufficient rest and medication such as anti-inflammatory drugs.
[Medication]
Treatment with medications such as anti-inflammatory painkillers that relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
[Physical Therapy]
Uses heat, air, light, electricity, ultrasound and other methods to promote tissue healing and improve movement, supporting functional recovery and rehabilitation of the painful area.
[Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)]
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy treats musculoskeletal pain from outside the body using a device that generates shockwaves. The strong waves help form new blood vessels and stimulate surrounding tissue and bone, making it effective for pain.
If numbness and pain are severe enough to limit everyday tasks such as using chopsticks or opening lids, surgery is performed.
[Wrist Arthroscopy]
Through a minimal incision of less than 1 cm, an endoscopic camera and surgical instruments are inserted into the joint to diagnose and treat the condition. The surgeon views the affected area directly and cuts the transverse carpal ligament that compresses the median nerve, relieving pressure on the nerve.
[Carpal Tunnel Release]
Through a minimal incision of less than 2–3 cm, the transverse carpal ligament that compresses the median nerve is cut. The operation takes about 10 minutes, and everyday activities that involve moving the fingers are possible after surgery. Stitches are removed within 2–3 weeks.
