Identifying Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
With so many Americans typing and working at computers all day, knowing the signs of carpal tunnel syndrome is more important than ever. Carpal tunnel syndrome can start slowly by affecting just one hand or just individual fingers. Over time, the sensation can grow into tingling and numbness in the hands and arms. In mild cases of carpal tunnel, people can use some home remedies to find pain relief. If carpal tunnel progresses, surgery may be the right option.

1. Schedule breaks
The development of carpal tunnel thrives on repetition. A repetitive movement like playing guitar, typing, or using a hand drill can all make symptoms worse. Try to take breaks at least once an hour. Some people also tend to grip tools tightly or use a lot of force when performing these tasks. Try to relax the grip or tap keys more lightly.
2. Stretch it out
During the hourly break during the workday, perform a few quick wrist and hand exercises to relieve carpal tunnel pain. For example, make a tight fist, hold for a few seconds, and then release and spread the fingers. Repeat 5-10 times.
3. Use topical treatments
Some studies have shown that topical treatment can help relieve carpal tunnel pain. Some options might include topical menthol, CBD oil, or arnica gel. Make sure to follow the packaging instructions and always ask a doctor about how much to use.
4. Hot and cold therapy
Using ice and heat is one of the best ways to decrease pain. The heat will help to relax muscles, while ice will reduce inflammation. Try soaking the affected wrist in an ice bath for 10-15 minutes once every hour. For hot therapy, soak the area in warm water up to 3-4 times a day.
Alternative therapies
Some other treatments can offer short-term relief for carpal tunnel pain. Yoga, ultrasound therapy, or hand therapy may all be options to relieve symptoms. Additionally, people may benefit from corticosteroid medications to decrease inflammation, either orally or through a wrist injection. Typically, a healthcare provider will recommend trying all these noninvasive options before moving forward with surgery.
When to consider surgery
Surgery may be an option if the pain is severe and other therapies have not worked. And for people with severe carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery has excellent outcome rates. Studies have shown that people who undergo surgery see more improvement within 6-12 months than those who do not. For more information about carpal tunnel syndrome, speak with a healthcare provider.
Recent Posts
Getting Pain Relief: Benefits From The Placement Of A Permanent Neurostimulator
A permanent placement of neurostimulator is effective in managing chronic pain. The device provides pain relief and improved quality of life.
Why The Best Podiatrists Recommend Rapid Tendon Repair Surgery
A tendon injury that needs surgery can take months to heal. A podiatrist-recommended rapid tendon repair can speed up the recovery timeline.
Ankle Stabilization Surgery: Can This Procedure Treat Instability While Preventing Further Injury?
People with ankle instability can fear injury. Ankle stabilization surgery is proven to secure the joint, and improve improve function.
Meniscal Repair: Can This Minimally Invasive Procedure Help Avoid Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is common for pain and stiffness. However, some patients can avoid replacement with meniscal repair.
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“Everyone was friendly and concerned about my comfort. They frequently asked how I was doing, or if I needed something.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“Everyone was concerned with my comfort.”
“Entire staff was knowledgeable and courteous. They genuinely cared for my well being and made sure my wife and I were taken care of.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“All staff were wonderful.”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Rebecca was amazing. I have always had trouble in the past with getting an IV started. I told Rebecca I was concerned about it. She got it on the 1st try – no digging in my arm and NO bruising the next day.”
“I can’t say enough about Marcia and the entire team. The care I received was well beyond anything I could have expected.”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“The nurses were very nice and caring!”
“Experience was amazing. The nurses my son needed at this time couldn’t have been chosen any more perfect. They were supportive and understanding, patient and just great human beings.THANK YOU KINDLY ”
“Incredibly professional, friendly and confidence of knowing their roles as healthcare employees. Excellent!”
“Marcia and staff were excellent and genuinely cared for my well being. Wish I could have taken them home.”
“The staff was very polite, they were excellent. They explained exactly what was going on.”
“NO wait time, RN Rebecca answered all questions prior to my visit by phone and again answered all questions and concerns while prepping me.”
“Anesthesia staff was outstanding!”
“The staff was great, especially Mary and Marcia. Marcia was extremely helpful post-op and made sure I was comfortable and well-cared for.”
“Dr. Tupper was amazing! He spent time explaining exactly what he was doing, what I would experience and made sure I was comfortable.”
“Efficiency of the staff. Courteous, friendly and caring attitude. Excellent office staff. Pleasant surroundings.”
“I liked that it was so clean. Every staff member was pleasant and easy to talk with.”
“No severe pain – Just a little discomfort – I was asked several times during procedure if I was OK – they showed genuine concern for my well being.”
“The STAFF from the moment you walk in were the nicest people I’ve encountered at a medical facility.”
“Dr. Dedhia made everything clear and even scheduled an early follow-up appt so I could get back to work sooner.”
“Everyone was friendly and the place was very clean.”
“Dr. Best…is the best!”
“Amazing nurses, very caring and friendly and put both me and my son at ease.”
Recent Posts
Getting Pain Relief: Benefits From The Placement Of A Permanent Neurostimulator
A permanent placement of neurostimulator is effective in managing chronic pain. The device provides pain relief and improved quality of life.
Why The Best Podiatrists Recommend Rapid Tendon Repair Surgery
A tendon injury that needs surgery can take months to heal. A podiatrist-recommended rapid tendon repair can speed up the recovery timeline.
Ankle Stabilization Surgery: Can This Procedure Treat Instability While Preventing Further Injury?
People with ankle instability can fear injury. Ankle stabilization surgery is proven to secure the joint, and improve improve function.
Meniscal Repair: Can This Minimally Invasive Procedure Help Avoid Knee Replacement Surgery?
Knee replacement surgery is common for pain and stiffness. However, some patients can avoid replacement with meniscal repair.