Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by pressure on the median nerve as it passes through a narrow passageway in the wrist known as the carpal tunnel. The median nerve controls sensation in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and part of the ring finger, as well as some movement within the hand.

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When the nerve becomes compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand and wrist. Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time if left untreated.

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Carpal tunnel syndrome frequently affects people who perform repetitive hand or wrist movements, including office workers, manual labourers, drivers and those using vibrating tools or equipment regularly.

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What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
 

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe and may affect one or both hands.

Common symptoms include:

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Tingling & Pins and Needles

A tingling sensation, often described as “pins and needles,” affecting the thumb, index finger, middle finger and ring finger.

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Numbness

Reduced sensation in the fingers or hand, particularly at night or first thing in the morning.

 

Hand & Wrist Pain

Pain may develop in the hand and wrist and can sometimes travel up the forearm toward the elbow, shoulder or neck.

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Weakness & Reduced Grip Strength

Patients may notice weakness in the hand, difficulty gripping objects or a tendency to drop items unexpectedly.

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Night Symptoms

Many people wake during the night with numbness, pain or tingling and may feel the need to shake the hand to relieve symptoms.

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Symptoms That Come and Go

In the early stages, symptoms may be intermittent before becoming more persistent over time.

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What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

 

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when pressure builds within the carpal tunnel and compresses the median nerve.

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Common contributing factors include:

• repetitive hand and wrist movements

• prolonged keyboard or mouse use

• manual work or vibration exposure

• pregnancy

• diabetes

• arthritis

• thyroid conditions

• wrist injuries or fractures

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In many cases, there is no single identifiable cause.

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How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

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Diagnosis usually begins with a detailed consultation and clinical examination.

 

Mr Shyamalan will assess:

• your symptoms

• hand strength

• sensation changes

• nerve irritation signs

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A nerve conduction study may also be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of nerve compression. This test measures how quickly electrical signals travel through the median nerve and can help determine whether surgery may be beneficial.

 

How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?

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Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and how much the condition is affecting day-to-day activities.

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Non-Surgical Treatment Options

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For mild or early-stage symptoms, conservative treatment may help relieve pressure on the nerve.

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These may include:

• wrist splints worn at night

• activity modification

• anti-inflammatory measures

• steroid injections to reduce irritation and swelling

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Some patients experience significant relief with non-surgical management alone.

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Carpal Tunnel Decompression Surgery

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For persistent or more severe cases, carpal tunnel decompression surgery may be recommended.

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This procedure involves releasing the tight ligament over the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the median nerve. Surgery is commonly performed as a day-case procedure under local anaesthetic, allowing patients to return home the same day.

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Carpal tunnel surgery is considered highly effective, particularly when nerve compression is treated before permanent nerve damage develops.

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Recovery After Carpal Tunnel Surgery

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Recovery times vary between patients, but most people notice gradual improvement in numbness, pain and hand function over the weeks following surgery.

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Some soreness and weakness during recovery is normal, and hand therapy may occasionally be recommended to optimise rehabilitation and movement.

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Patients often ask:

“Can carpal tunnel syndrome return after surgery?”

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Although recurrence is uncommon, symptoms can occasionally return over time. Most patients, however, experience long-term improvement and significant relief from symptoms.

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When Should You See a Hand Specialist?

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It is important to seek specialist assessment if you are experiencing:

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• ongoing numbness or tingling

• night pain waking you from sleep

• weakness in the hand

• difficulty gripping objects

• worsening symptoms despite rest

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Early treatment can help prevent long-term nerve damage and improve recovery outcomes.

 

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Expert Carpal Tunnel Treatment in Birmingham & Solihull

 

Mr G Shyamalan is an experienced consultant hand surgeon specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome and other hand, wrist and nerve conditions.

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Midland Hand Clinic provides expert private consultations and treatment across Birmingham, Solihull, Sutton Coldfield and Warwickshire.

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Book Your Consultation

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If you are experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, contact Midland Hand Clinic today to arrange a specialist consultation and discuss your treatment options.

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