Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by tendons pressing on the median nerve, which transmits signals to and from the hand. Along with multiple tendons, the median nerve runs through the wrist in a structure called the carpal tunnel. If the tendons get inflamed and swollen, they can press on the median nerve, causing pain, numbness and weakness in the hand and wrist.
Rest and Stretching
FamilyDoctor.org notes that one treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome involves resting the affected wrist. Patients may need to limit their activities to avoid putting additional strain on the wrist or change how they use their hands. Many doctors recommend that patients wear special protective sprints or braces which can help ease pain, particularly wrist and hand pain that occurs at night. Putting ice on the affected wrist can help ease the inflammation. Stretching and strengthening exercises can also be effective at treating carpal tunnel.
Over-The-Counter Medications
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke explains that many different non-prescription medications can be used to provide symptomatic relief. Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are all examples of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications that can help relieve carpal tunnel pain and can reduce inflammation, which can also help alleviate the symptoms.
Injections
If rest and non-prescription medications are unable to sufficiently relieve the symptoms, a cortisone injection may be administered. Cortisone is a very powerful anti-inflammatory drug. A cortisone injection can be administered by a physician directly into the inflamed tissue in the wrist. Because carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by inflamed tendons, this treatment can drastically reduce the pain and other symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Surgery
Carpal tunnel syndrome can also be treated with surgery if other treatment options have not been successful. Carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the sheath that surrounds the tendons and the nerve (the carpal ligament) in order to create more space for the nerve and the tendons. This can relieve any pinching of the median nerve.
