Carpel tunnel syndrome – Carpel tunnel syndrome is a form of repetitive strain injury (RSI) and is the result of damage to soft tissues (e.g. Tendons) and sometimes bones in the wrist which causes inflammation and swelling in a very restricted area. This swelling creates pressure on the median nerve in your wrist which may result in pain, tingling and numbness in your hand, wrist and also in your thumb and fingers. In addition to injury of structures ion the wrist, this swelling may also be caused by medical conditions such as arthritis and diabetes and may also occur in pregnancy, which in the latter case is likely to disappear after delivery.

The condition is particularly common in people who use their hands repetitively, such as those working on computers or assembly lines. The pain may get worse the more you use your hands. If you do repetitive work with your hands it is important to make sure you are comfortable during this work. Sometimes making small adjustments to the job or the work environment can make a big difference in relieving the symptoms.

Applying an ice pack for 5-10 mins every 1-2 hours in the early stages of the pain/numbness may help reduce the swelling and therefore the pressure on the nerve. Keeping your wrist elevated when possible can also help limit the swelling. This means resting your hand on pillows when lying down.