Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed. It’s one of the most common nerve compression conditions we treat, affecting people who perform repetitive hand motions, as well as those with diabetes, pregnancy, arthritis, or a family history of the condition.

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
• A “pins and needles” sensation, especially at night – Weakness or clumsiness when gripping objects
• Pain that may radiate up the forearm

Carpal tunnel syndrome can develop from repetitive wrist motion, prolonged computer or tool use, wrist anatomy, pregnancy-related swelling, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid conditions. In many cases, no single clear cause is identified.

Treatment typically begins conservatively, wrist splinting, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medication, before progressing to more advanced options if symptoms persist: – Custom wrist splinting through our hand therapy team – Corticosteroid injections – Carpal tunnel release surgery, which can often be performed using wide awake local anesthesia technique for select patients

Dr. Kadzielski’s fellowship training at Massachusetts General Hospital includes advanced expertise in nerve compression conditions, and our in-house hand therapy team supports your recovery from splinting through post-surgical rehabilitation, all coordinated in one practice.