Hand numbness or wrist pain? It could be Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you've been waking at night with numb fingers, struggling to grip objects or noticing tingling in your thumb and first few fingers, you may be experiencing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). This common condition occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can affect people of all ages and occupations, from office workers and tradies to healthcare professionals and parents caring for young children. While symptoms may begin gradually, they can become increasingly disruptive if left unaddressed.

At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic, we help people across Belconnen and Canberra understand their symptoms, identify contributing factors and develop an individualised management plan designed to improve function and reduce discomfort.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when pressure increases within the narrow passageway in the wrist known as the carpal tunnel. The median nerve, which supplies sensation to the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger, travels through this space alongside several tendons.

When the nerve becomes compressed, symptoms may develop gradually or sometimes appear more suddenly.

Common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Symptoms often include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers

• Burning or aching pain in the wrist or hand

• Symptoms that worsen at night

• Difficulty gripping or holding objects

• Reduced hand strength

• Dropping objects unexpectedly

• Symptoms during driving, typing or holding a phone

Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, so an assessment is important to determine whether Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the cause of your wrist or hand discomfort.

What causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Several factors may contribute to increased pressure on the median nerve, including:

• Repetitive hand or wrist movements

• Prolonged gripping activities

• Pregnancy

• Diabetes

• Arthritis affecting the wrist

• Previous wrist injury

• Fluid retention

• Certain workplace demands

In many cases, more than one factor contributes to the condition.

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome diagnosed?

Diagnosis begins with a detailed history and physical examination.

Your physiotherapist may assess:

• Your symptoms and when they occur

• Hand and wrist movement

• Grip strength

• Sensation

• Nerve function

• Activities that aggravate symptoms

If your presentation suggests another condition or further investigation is required, your physiotherapist may recommend discussing additional imaging or nerve conduction studies with your GP.

How can physiotherapy help?

Physiotherapy aims to identify the factors contributing to your symptoms and develop an evidence-informed management plan.

Treatment may include:

Education

Understanding how your symptoms develop can help you modify aggravating activities while remaining active where appropriate.

Activity modification

Small changes to workstations, tool use or daily habits may reduce stress on the wrist.

Exercise therapy

Specific exercises may be prescribed to improve wrist mobility, tendon movement, strength and upper limb function where appropriate.

Manual therapy

Hands-on treatment may be considered where clinically indicated as part of a broader management plan.

Splint advice

Some people benefit from night splints or temporary wrist support. Your physiotherapist can advise whether this may be appropriate for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome go away on its own?

Some mild cases may improve, particularly if symptoms are related to temporary factors such as pregnancy or changes in activity. Persistent symptoms should be assessed to determine appropriate management.

When should I see a physiotherapist?

Consider arranging an assessment if numbness, tingling or wrist pain persists, interferes with work, disturbs your sleep or affects your ability to perform everyday tasks.

Will I need surgery?

Not everyone requires surgery. Management depends on the severity of symptoms, examination findings and how you respond to conservative treatment. If surgery appears appropriate, your physiotherapist can work alongside your GP or medical team.

Can I keep working?

Many people can continue working with temporary modifications. Advice will depend on your occupation, symptoms and individual circumstances.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery varies considerably between individuals and depends on factors including symptom duration, severity, general health and the management approach used.

Can Carpal Tunnel Syndrome be prevented?

Although prevention is not always possible, you may reduce your risk by:

• Taking regular movement breaks

• Avoiding prolonged awkward wrist positions

• Improving workstation setup

• Gradually increasing new activities

• Maintaining general strength and fitness

• Addressing symptoms early

Physiotherapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in Canberra

If you're experiencing ongoing hand numbness, tingling or wrist pain, an assessment can help identify the likely cause and determine the most appropriate management plan.

At Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic, we provide comprehensive physiotherapy assessments for people experiencing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and other hand or wrist conditions. We work with clients from Belconnen and across Canberra, providing personalised advice, education and rehabilitation based on current evidence and your individual goals.

Book an Appointment

If wrist pain, tingling or hand numbness is affecting your daily activities, contact Belconnen Physiotherapy Clinic on (02) 6251 3487 to arrange an appointment. Our team can assess your symptoms, answer your questions and develop an individualised treatment plan suited to your needs.

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