Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Blog 

A Guide to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

Your hands and wrists are involved in nearly every movement you make. From typing an email to holding your coffee cup. When you begin to feel numbness, tingling or pain in your wrist, even the simplest tasks can become difficult. These symptoms could point to carpal tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve inside your wrist. At Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics, our experienced physicians provide expert carpal tunnel syndrome care at our clinics in Carmel, Greenwood, Mooresville, Noblesville and Tipton. Whether your symptoms are work-related, injury-induced or gradually worsening over time, we can diagnose and create a personalized treatment plan to help you find relief.  

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects one of the main nerves in the wrist: the median nerve. 

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage formed by the natural arch of bones and ligaments, which act as rigid walls, not allowing room for expansion. Inside the carpal tunnel are nine tendons that control finger and thumb movement, along with the median nerve that controls sensation and muscle signals.  

“If you are experiencing numbness or tingling in your hand, do not ignore it. These symptoms can be signs of nerve compression, and they may worsen over time if left untreated. Seeking medical attention early can help prevent further damage. Fortunately, surgery is not always necessary. Many patients can find relief through treatments such as splinting, physical therapy or medication," says Dr. Dale Snead, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity injuries.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

Carpal tunnel syndrome is most often caused by increased pressure on the median nerve inside the tunnel. This pressure usually results from swelling of the surrounding tissues or other structural changes. When this pressure disrupts nerve function, it is called compressive neuropathy. While the exact cause is not always clear, many conditions can contribute to carpal tunnel syndrome, including: 

• Rheumatoid arthritis 

• Gout  

• Amyloidosis  

• Infections 

• Psoriatic arthritis 

• Arthritic spurs of the carpal bones 

• Tumors 

• Ganglion cysts 

• Wrist fracture 

• Repetitive motions performed at work or at home   

What Are the Risk Factors? 

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing carpal tunnel syndrome, such as:  

• Gender: Women are more likely than men to experience it.  

• Age: It rarely occurs in children and is more common starting in your 40’s. 

• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, obesity, hypothyroidism and alcohol use disorder are associated with a higher risk.  

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome  

Most people with carpal tunnel first notice their fingers tingling or feeling numb, especially at night. Over time, this can become more constant, and in some cases, pain or weakness may follow. If there is a sudden structural change like a fracture, the symptoms may appear rapidly. Other possible symptoms include: 

• Pain or discomfort in the wrist, hand, or forearm, which may radiate up to the shoulder.  

• Weakness or difficulty with fine motor tasks 

• It is important to note that pain without numbness in the median nerve distribution is usually not carpal tunnel syndrome.  

What Does Treatment Typically Look Like? 

• Diagnosis for carpal tunnel syndrome is based on a patient’s symptoms and a physical exam. The goal of treatment is to reduce the pressure on the median nerve, which can improve or resolve symptoms.  

 Non-surgical treatment options may include  

• Oral anti-inflammatory medicine 

• Steroid injection 

• Wrist splint(s) 

• Surgical treatment, known as carpal tunnel release, involves cutting the transverse carpal ligament to create more space in the tunnel. This reduces the pressure on the nerve and usually provides immediate relief. Multiple surgical techniques are available, depending on the case.  

“Sometimes, if symptoms have been short-lived, we may begin with conservative treatment such as splinting. However, if symptoms are persistent or worsening, we may recommend a more proactive approach to prevent long-term damage. Early intervention is key to preserving hand function and minimizing the risk of permanent injury,” says Dr. Dale Snead.  

Meet With a Specialist Today  

Understanding the causes and risk factors of carpal tunnel syndrome can empower individuals to take proactive steps in wrist care. At Forté Sports Medicine & Orthopedics, we offer expert treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Whether you're an athlete or a recreational exerciser, our team can help you stay active and pain-free. Contact us today to get started on your path to recovery!