CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome develops when pressure builds within the wrist tunnel and compresses the median nerve. Several factors can contribute to this condition. 

Repeated wrist motions, such as typing, gaming, or using handheld devices for long hours, may irritate the tendons surrounding the median nerve. Over time, inflammation and swelling can reduce the space inside the carpal tunnel and increase nerve pressure. 

Activities that involve forceful gripping or bending of the wrist, such as manual work, sports training, or repetitive lifting, can strain the wrist structures and contribute to nerve compression. 

Some individuals naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel, which can increase the likelihood of nerve compression. This anatomical trait may run in families. 

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause fluid retention and swelling in the body, including the wrist. This temporary swelling may compress the median nerve and trigger Carpal Tunnel symptoms. 

Certain health conditions can increase the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including: 

• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Thyroid disorders

These conditions may cause inflammation or tissue changes that narrow the carpal tunnel.

Patients undergoing haemodialysis may experience fluid shifts or tissue changes that increase pressure around the wrist tunnel.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can range in severity, with discomfort sometimes radiating beyond the hand and affecting daily activities. If your pain persists, worsens, or restricts your ability to perform simple actions, it’s best to have it assessed by a specialist.

• Pain: Pain, tingling or burning sensation in the fingers. The pain may rarely radiate to the forearm towards the shoulder, and it may initially come and go; however, it may stay for a longer period as it worsens. 
• Weakness: You may find difficulties in doing small tasks such as buttoning clothes, holding a book, writing, or using a computer keyboard. 
• Other symptoms: Other symptoms include numbness in your palm, thumb, or index and middle fingers, tingling in the fingers, and decreased sensation in the fingertips. The little finger of the hand is usually spared. 

If pain from carpal tunnel syndrome is mild, you may benefit from conservative treatments, including: 

• Splinting: Wrist splints keep your wrist in a neutral position, reducing pressure on the median nerve. Our doctors may recommend wearing splints for six to ten weeks, particularly at night when symptoms often worsen. This simple intervention can provide significant relief for mild to moderate CTS. 
• Physical Therapy: Physiotherapists design exercises to reduce stiffness, improve wrist flexibility, and accelerate restoration of normal function. Nerve gliding exercises help the median nerve move more freely through the carpal tunnel. Treatment is tailored to your specific condition and work requirements. 
• Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to help minimize pain and swelling during acute flare-ups, providing temporary relief while other treatments take effect. 

If your symptoms do not improve or continue to interfere with movement, minimally invasive treatments can target the real source of pain without the need for open surgery. At Singapore Paincare, we offer precise procedures designed to relieve pain at its origin. 

A potent anti-inflammatory steroid injection delivered directly into the carpal tunnel to reduce swelling and create more space for the median nerve. This simple procedure provides quick, effective relief with minimal risk and works particularly well for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. If you need more than two injections, our specialists may recommend MRI evaluation to better understand your condition and determine if additional interventions are needed.

When conservative treatments are not effective or the condition becomes severe, surgery may be considered. 

• Carpal Tunnel Release Surgery: During this procedure, the surgeon releases the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel. This helps relieve pressure on the median nerve. Although patients can often return home the same day, surgery carries risks, recovery time, and the possibility of symptom recurrence. 

While not all cases can be prevented, these practices can help reduce your risk: 

• Keep your wrists straight or in neutral position when using tools, typing, or performing repetitive tasks 
• Avoid repeatedly curling, flexing, or extending your wrists—maintain neutral alignment as much as possible 
• Ensure proper workstation ergonomics—adjust desk height, keyboard position, and chair to promote neutral wrist posture, especially important in Singapore's office environment 
• Take frequent breaks during repetitive activities—follow the 20-20-20 rule for computer work