Introduction to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Its Impact

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It causes uncomfortable symptoms like tingling, numbness, and pain in the hand and fingers by putting pressure on the median nerve in the wrist. As more people become aware of CTS, there’s growing interest in non-surgical treatments that can ease symptoms without the risks or long recovery that come with surgery. Drawing on the expertise of Professor Paul Lee, a respected orthopaedic specialist, and the friendly, professional team at MSK Doctors, this article explores effective conservative treatments to help manage CTS symptoms with care and confidence.

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Why Non-Surgical Treatment Matters

CTS typically causes numbness, tingling, weakness and pain especially in the thumb and first two or three fingers. It’s often caused by repetitive wrist movements, certain wrist shapes, or health conditions like diabetes. Many prefer to try non-surgical options first, hoping to relieve symptoms without going under the knife. As one study puts it, “Prophylaxis, diagnostics and, above all, therapy implemented in patients with CTS are of great importance in the disease prognosis” (Gooch & Mitten, 2005). This means that early detection and appropriate treatment can make a real difference in how well someone recovers.

Wrist Splinting: A First Step in Non-Surgical Care

One of the best-known non-surgical treatments is wrist splinting. Wearing a splint, especially at night, keeps the wrist in a neutral position and eases pressure on the median nerve. This simple step can reduce pain, numbness, and discomfort. However, it’s important to pick the right splint—one that fits comfortably, keeps the wrist still but doesn’t restrict finger movement. Consistency is key, so patients should wear the splint regularly during flare-ups.

Interestingly, “neutral-angle wrist splinting, with a success rate of 37%” (Bland, 2007) is one of the few treatments with clear evidence of benefit. At MSK Doctors, Professor Paul Lee’s vast experience helps patients select and use splints effectively, ensuring this treatment is as helpful as possible.

Medications and Injections for Symptom Relief

Medications like anti-inflammatory painkillers (NSAIDs) can help ease CTS pain but don’t fix the nerve compression itself. Injections of corticosteroids near the wrist can reduce swelling and offer more significant relief, at least temporarily.

These injections tend to be tried when splints or tablets aren’t enough. But they have their limits: “steroids…are better given by local injection than as oral treatment. The initial response rate to injection is 70% but there are frequent relapses” (Bland, 2007). It’s also key to be aware of possible side effects, so they must be given by a professional and patients should have realistic expectations about how long relief might last.

Lifestyle Changes, Home Remedies, and Complementary Therapies

Making simple changes at home can be a big help. Adjusting your workstation, maintaining good wrist posture, avoiding repetitive tasks for long periods, and doing recommended wrist and hand exercises can all reduce symptoms.

Alongside these, some patients explore complementary therapies such as acupuncture. In one report, a woman experienced “pain decreased by 70% and normal grip strength after just one acupuncture session, with pain relief lasting six months” (Zavela, 2010). While more research is needed before acupuncture becomes a routine recommendation, it may offer added benefits for some people.

Importantly, as Gooch and Mitten remind us, “therapy…is of great importance in the disease prognosis” (2005), and “these conservative treatments have a negligible incidence of serious complications and should be used more widely until surgical failures can be reduced to similar levels” (Bland, 2007).

When to See a Specialist and Special Considerations

If symptoms stick around, worsen, or disrupt your daily life, it’s important to see a healthcare professional promptly. Early specialist advice helps to avoid lasting nerve damage and get treatment tailored to your needs.

Pregnant women may experience worse CTS symptoms due to fluid retention. Managing CTS safely during pregnancy requires extra care, and MSK Doctors provide sensitive, expert care, guided by Professor Paul Lee’s specialist knowledge.

Summary and What to Do Next

There are many non-surgical ways to manage CTS, including wrist splinting, medications, steroid injections, lifestyle changes, and in some cases, acupuncture. The key is finding what works for you, with guidance from a trusted healthcare professional.

If you think you have CTS or your symptoms are worsening, don’t delay — seek personalised advice from a qualified professional.

For individual medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

References

• Gooch, C. L., & Mitten, D. J. (2005). Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Neurology, 64(12), 2006–2007. https://doi.org/10.1212/01.wnl.0000165955.65091.c9
• Bland, J. D. P. (2007). Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. Muscle & Nerve, 36(2), 167–171. https://doi.org/10.1002/mus.20802
• Zavela, N. G. (2010). Acupuncture treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome. Medical Acupuncture, 22(4), 273–276. https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2010.0752