Carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

What is carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

What exactly is carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist through which tendons and the median nerve run. With carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, this nerve becomes compressed. This leads to symptoms in the wrist, hand and fingers. The nerve has too little space and becomes irritated.
Many people search for what is carpal tunnel syndrome or what is a carpal tunnel syndrome. Basically, it is a nerve compression in the wrist that disrupts signals to the hand.

Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in the wrist

Symptoms often start gradually and slowly get worse.
Common carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in the wrist are:

• Tingling in the thumb, index finger and middle finger
• Numb feeling in the hand, especially at night
• Pain in the wrist and forearm
• Reduced grip strength
• Dropping objects
• Stiff feeling in the wrist when getting up

If symptoms become more severe, pain can also radiate from the wrist towards the arm or shoulder. Do you recognise this. Then it is wise to take action in time.

Cause of carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

The cause of carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist is usually long-term or one-sided strain. The space in the carpal tunnel becomes smaller, causing pressure on the nerve.
Common causes of carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist are:

• Many repetitive wrist movements
• Prolonged computer work
• Heavy strain on the wrist
• Pregnancy due to fluid retention
• Osteoarthritis in the wrist
• Diabetes
• Vibrations from tools

There is often not one clear cause. In most cases, it is a combination of factors that increase pressure in the wrist.

What you can already do yourself for wrist complaints

With early wrist complaints caused by carpal tunnel syndrome, you can already take steps yourself.

• Reduce prolonged strain on the wrist
• Change your working posture regularly
• Use an ergonomic mouse and keyboard
• Wear a wrist brace at night if necessary
• Do gentle wrist mobility exercises daily

If carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms in the wrist keep returning or worsen, professional guidance is needed.

Exercise for carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

A good exercise for carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist focuses on improving circulation and reducing tension around the nerve.
Example of a safe basic exercise:

• Extend your arm in front of you with your hand facing up
• Gently pull your fingers back with your other hand
• Hold this for 10 to 20 seconds
• Relax and repeat 3 times

These wrist exercises for carpal tunnel syndrome should never cause sharp pain. The goal is to create space in the wrist without further irritating the nerve.

Assessment and treatment plan at De Fysio Man

At De Fysio Man, we take a focused look at your wrist. We assess:

• Mobility of the wrist
• Mobility of the elbow and shoulder
• Tension in the forearm
• Strength of the hand and fingers
• Working posture and wrist load

Based on this, we create a personalised treatment plan including:

• Targeted mobilisation of the wrist
• Neurodynamic exercises
• Muscle relaxation
• Load progression
• Advice on working posture and wrist use

Recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

Recovery from carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist differs per person. With mild symptoms, improvement is often seen within a few weeks. With long-term or more severe wrist complaints, recovery may take several months.
It is important that you:

• Address the cause in the wrist
• Avoid continued overuse
• Perform your exercises consistently
• Listen to signals from your body

In some cases, additional medical examination is needed. Surgery is only considered if conservative treatment has insufficient effect.

Rehabilitation phases for wrist complaints

Phase 1 Reducing symptoms

We focus on reducing pain in the wrist, rest and improving circulation.

Phase 2 Mobility and strength

The wrist and forearm become stronger and more flexible. The nerve gets more space again.

Phase 3 Return to work and sport

We gradually build up the load on the wrist so you can safely return to your daily activities.

Frequently asked questions about carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

Does carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist go away on its own

With mild symptoms, sometimes yes. But without the right approach, wrist complaints often return or worsen.

Is carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist dangerous

Not directly dangerous. However, long-term compression in the wrist can lead to permanent loss of strength.

Can physiotherapy help with carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist

Yes. Physiotherapy focuses on reducing pressure in the wrist, improving function and preventing recurrence.

Your next step

Do not continue walking around with tingling, pain and loss of strength in your wrist. The earlier you start with the right approach, the better the recovery.