Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief

If your hand goes numb while driving, wakes you up at night with tingling, or makes it hard to grip a coffee mug in the morning, carpal tunnel syndrome may be the cause. It is one of the most common nerve conditions in the United States, affecting roughly 3 to 6 percent of adults, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS). The good news is that most cases respond well to treatment, especially when caught early. At Garey Orthopedic Medical Group in Claremont, we treat patients across the Inland Empire, Pomona Valley, and San Gabriel Valley for this condition every week.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist. It is formed by bones on the bottom and sides and a tough band of tissue called the transverse carpal ligament across the top. Running through this tunnel is the median nerve, which controls sensation in your thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of your ring finger, as well as the muscles at the base of your thumb.

When the tunnel becomes narrowed or the tissue inside it swells, the median nerve gets compressed. That compression is what causes the classic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Who Gets Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is more common in women than men, and risk increases with age. Conditions that raise your risk include:

• Diabetes or prediabetes, which can affect nerve function
• Hypothyroidism, which can cause tissue swelling
• Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions
• Pregnancy, due to fluid retention
• Jobs or hobbies that involve prolonged use of vibrating tools or repetitive wrist flexion and extension

Contrary to popular belief, the research on typing and keyboard use as a direct cause of carpal tunnel is mixed. However, sustained awkward wrist positions while working at a desk can contribute to symptoms over time.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome typically develops gradually. Most people notice symptoms first at night or first thing in the morning.

Common signs include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, or ring finger
• A sensation of the hand falling asleep, even without prolonged pressure on it
• Weakness when pinching or gripping objects
• Dropping things more frequently than usual
• Pain that travels up the forearm toward the elbow or shoulder

One useful self-test is the Phalen maneuver: hold your wrists in a flexed position for 60 seconds. If numbness or tingling appears within that time, carpal tunnel syndrome is a likely cause. However, a proper diagnosis requires an examination and, in some cases, nerve conduction studies.

Treatment Options: From Simple to Surgical

The right treatment depends on how severe and how long-standing your symptoms are. Most patients start with conservative options.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Wrist splinting: Wearing a brace that holds the wrist in a neutral position, especially at night, relieves pressure on the
• median nerve. The AAOS notes that splinting is most effective in mild to moderate cases.
• Activity modification: Identifying and reducing tasks that trigger symptoms can slow progression significantly.
• Corticosteroid injections: A steroid injection into the carpal tunnel reduces inflammation and often provides months of
• relief. It is not a permanent cure, but it is useful for diagnosis and short-term management.
• Physical and occupational therapy: Nerve gliding exercises and ergonomic adjustments can reduce symptoms and improve function.

Surgical Treatment: Carpal Tunnel Release

When symptoms are severe, have lasted more than six months, or have not responded to conservative care, carpal tunnel release surgery is the standard next step. The procedure involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve. It is typically done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia.

According to the AAOS, carpal tunnel release has a high success rate, with the majority of patients reporting significant improvement in symptoms. Recovery involves a period of hand therapy and graded return to activity, typically over four to six weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure and the demands of your job.

When Should You See a Specialist?

Many people wait too long before seeking help for carpal tunnel symptoms. If you notice any of the following, schedule an evaluation promptly:

• Symptoms that have persisted for more than two to three months
• Weakness in your grip or difficulty using your hand for daily tasks
• Numbness that is constant rather than intermittent
• Symptoms that are getting worse despite using a wrist splint

Waiting too long can allow the nerve to sustain lasting damage that limits how fully it can recover, even after successful surgery. Early evaluation leads to better outcomes.

Residents across the Inland Empire and Pomona Valley do not need to travel far for specialized hand and wrist care. Our team at Garey Orthopedic Medical Group offers in-office nerve testing and a full range of treatment options, from conservative management to minimally invasive surgical release.

Living With Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Practical Tips

While you are waiting for your appointment or managing mild symptoms, these steps can help:

• Sleep with a neutral-position wrist splint on the affected hand
• Take frequent breaks from repetitive hand tasks, ideally every 30 to 45 minutes
• Keep your wrists in a neutral position when using a keyboard or mouse
• Avoid sleeping with your wrists bent under your pillow or body
• Apply ice to the wrist for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce swelling during flare-ups

These measures are not a substitute for professional evaluation, but they can make a meaningful difference in day-to-day comfort while you explore your treatment options.

If you're experiencing hand numbness, wrist pain, or symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, the team at Garey Orthopedic Medical Group is here to help. We offer same-day and next-day appointments for new patients. Visit gareyortho.com or call us to schedule today.