Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience persistent numbness, tingling, or pain in your thumb, index finger, middle finger, or half of your ring finger, especially at night or when gripping objects.
You have difficulty performing daily tasks due to weakness or discomfort in your hand.
You suspect you may have carpal tunnel syndrome but are unsure.
Your symptoms are gradually worsening over time.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and home remedies aren't providing relief.
You experience sudden and severe pain, numbness, or weakness in your hand or wrist.
You experience significant hand swelling or bruising.
You lose feeling or function in your thumb completely.
You have concerns your symptoms might be caused by a different medical condition.
or heart disease.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You experience persistent numbness, tingling, or pain in your thumb, index finger, middle finger, or half of your ring finger, especially at night or when gripping objects.
You have difficulty performing daily tasks due to weakness or discomfort in your hand.
You suspect you may have carpal tunnel syndrome but are unsure.
Your symptoms are gradually worsening over time.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and home remedies aren't providing relief.
You experience sudden and severe pain, numbness, or weakness in your hand or wrist.
You experience significant hand swelling or bruising.
You lose feeling or function in your thumb completely.
You have concerns your symptoms might be caused by a different medical condition.
or heart disease.

Do’s:

Take frequent breaks: Avoid prolonged periods of repetitive hand and wrist motions. Take short breaks every 20-30 minutes to stretch and rest your hands.
Maintain good posture: Keep your wrists straight and neutral while working or using electronic devices. Avoid bending your wrists at extreme angles for extended periods.
Apply ice therapy: Reduce inflammation and pain by applying a cold compress to your wrist for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day.
Stretch regularly: Perform gentle hand and wrist stretches throughout the day to improve flexibility and circulation.
Strengthen your hands: Gentle hand and forearm strengthening exercises can improve overall hand function and stability. Talk to a physical therapist for guidance.
Use ergonomic equipment: Invest in ergonomic keyboards, mouse pads, and wrist supports to promote proper hand and wrist position while working.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put extra strain on your wrists. Losing weight, if necessary, can help alleviate symptoms.

Don'ts:

Ignore the pain: Early intervention is key. Don't wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking professional help.
Overuse your hands: Avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. Take breaks and listen to your body.
Sleep with your wrists bent: Maintain a neutral wrist position while sleeping by using wrist splints if needed.
Smoke: Smoking can restrict blood flow and worsen symptoms.
Treat yourself: Carpal tunnel syndrome requires proper diagnosis and treatment. Don't self-medicate with pain relievers for extended periods without consulting a doctor.
Ignore ergonomic advice: Using proper equipment and maintaining good posture is crucial for preventing further strain.

Possible Questions:

Can you describe the pain, numbness, or tingling in your hand or wrist?
Where exactly do you feel the discomfort? (Thumb, fingers, palm, etc.)
When did you first start experiencing these symptoms?
Have the symptoms gotten worse over time?
Are your symptoms worse at night or during the day?
Do any activities seem to trigger or worsen your symptoms?
Do you have any weakness or clumsiness in your hand?
Do you have any other medical conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid problems?
Are you currently pregnant?
Have you recently experienced any injuries to your wrist or hand?
Do you use any medications regularly (prescription or over-the-counter)?
What is your occupation? (Certain jobs involve repetitive hand movements that can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome)
How often do you use electronic devices like computers or smartphones?
Do you participate in any hobbies or activities that require repetitive hand movements?

1. Symptoms

What are the common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

The hallmark symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome is pain, tingling, or numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and half of the ring finger. This discomfort often worsens at night and may even wake you from sleep. You may also experience weakness and difficulty gripping objects.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

How can I tell if I have carpal tunnel syndrome and not another condition?

While carpal tunnel symptoms can be distinct, it's important to see a specialist for proper diagnosis. At LIPS, our team will perform a thorough examination to rule out other causes of hand and wrist pain.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

What tests are used to diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome?

LIPS utilises various diagnostic tools to pinpoint carpal tunnel syndrome. This may include a physical examination, neurological testing to assess nerve function, and potentially imaging studies like X-rays or ultrasounds to visualise the carpal tunnel.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

How long does it take to get diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome?

During your initial consultation at LIPS, our specialists will work efficiently to reach a diagnosis. The timeline may depend on the complexity of your case and any necessary tests. In many cases, a diagnosis can be confirmed on the same day.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What treatment options are available for carpal tunnel syndrome at LIPS?

LIPS offers a personalised treatment approach for carpal tunnel syndrome. This may include conservative measures like splinting, activity modification, and pain medication in the initial stages. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgery may be recommended.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

How long does it take for carpal tunnel syndrome to go away?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of your case and the chosen treatment approach. Our team at LIPS will develop a plan tailored to your needs to help you achieve optimal recovery as quickly as possible.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers. Our dedicated team can assist you in verifying your coverage and understanding any associated costs for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment.

Do you accept my insurance plan?

Please don't hesitate to inquire about your specific insurance plan. We can help you navigate the insurance process and ensure you receive the best possible care for carpal tunnel syndrome.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.