Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Characteristics, Symptoms and Treatment
Dr. med. Levke Steiner is a neurologist specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome, a common nerve disorder of the wrist that can lead to tingling, numbness, and pain in the hand.
Dr. med. Levke Steiner Specialist in Neurology
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common nerve disorder caused by the compression of the median nerve in the wrist. The so-called carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway through which tendons and nerves travel to the hand. If pressure increases in this area, the nerve becomes irritated or damaged.
Possible causes and risk factors
Overuse or repetitive movements of the hand and wrist Swelling of the tendon sheaths, e.g., in inflammatory conditions Hormonal changes (e.g., during pregnancy) Diabetes mellitus Rheumatic diseases Anatomical abnormalities or wrist injuries
Common symptoms
The most frequent symptoms include tingling, numbness, or pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, as well as the adjacent part of the ring finger. These symptoms often occur at night or at rest, and over time can be accompanied by a loss of hand strength and impaired fine motor skills.
Diagnosis and Treatment
In our neurology practice, the assessment involves a thorough clinical examination as well as nerve conduction studies. Depending on the severity, conservative measures such as splinting or medication may be considered. In cases of severe or persistent symptoms, surgical treatment may be considered.
Frequently asked questions about carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome involves the compression of a major nerve in the hand (the median nerve) within the wrist area, leading to typical tingling sensations and pain in the hand.
Tingling, numbness, or pain in the thumb, index, and middle fingers are common. Symptoms are often worse at night and may be accompanied by a loss of hand strength over time.
The diagnosis is made through a neurological examination and nerve conduction studies, potentially supplemented by nerve ultrasound. This allows for a reliable assessment of the extent of nerve damage.
Depending on the severity, conservative measures such as splinting, rest, or medication may be appropriate. For persistent or severe symptoms, surgical decompression of the nerve may be advisable.