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Sebastian Farr, M.D.

Associate Professor of Orthopedic Surgery
Specialist in Pediatric Orthopaedics and Hand Surgery

Carpal tunnel syndrome

Causes, symptoms and treatment

Imagine waking up in the middle of the night because your hand is tingling or numb. Perhaps you feel like you can no longer move your fingers properly – as if they have fallen asleep. These symptoms are typical signs of carpal tunnel syndrome, one of the most common so-called constriction syndromes of the upper extremity. But what exactly is behind it and how can the problem be treated effectively? Here you can find out everything about the causes, symptoms and the latest treatment options – from gentle measures to targeted surgical interventions.

Handgelenk

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition caused by a constriction of the median nerve in the carpal canal of the wrist. This constriction leads to pressure on the median nerve and can cause symptoms such as numbness, discomfort or pain in the hand and fingers.

Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a narrowing of the carpal tunnel, which can have various causes. The most common factors include

  • Repetitive strain on the hand and wrist (e.g. working on the computer, manual occupations, making music)
  • Inflammation of the tendons in the area of the carpal canal
  • Diseases such as rheumatism or diabetes
  • Pregnancy, as increased water retention can occur Women are more frequently affected than men, as the position of the carpal tunnel is anatomically narrower in them.
Frau hält sich ihr Handgelenk

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

The typical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include

  • Numbness and discomfort in the fingers, especially the thumb, index and middle fingers
  • Pain in the palm of the hand that can radiate to the forearm or shoulder
  • Declining hand function and weakness in the muscles (especially the thumb)
  • Worsening of symptoms at night or during certain movements. In severe cases, the disease can lead to permanent nerve damage and a loss of function in parts of the hand.

When to see a doctor?

A visit to the doctor is advisable if:

  • The symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or worsen.
  • numbness or pain restrict hand function.
  • The symptoms also occur during periods of rest or disturb sleep.
  • Progressive weakness of the hand muscles is noticeable.

Diagnostics

Various methods are available for examining carpal tunnel syndrome. A thorough examination by a hand surgeon, such as Dr. Farr in Vienna, is crucial. The following procedures are used:

  • Physical examination and testing of hand function
  • Ultrasound examination to visualize the median nerve
  • Measurement of the nerve conduction velocity to determine the constriction
  • X-ray or MRI to detect injuries or other changes. The diagnosis is made on the basis of the examination results in order to initiate the appropriate therapy.
Arzt untersucht Hand

Types of treatment - therapy and surgery

The treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome depends on the severity of the condition. A distinction is made between conservative and surgical measures.

Conservative therapy

In mild to moderate cases, conservative therapy can help to alleviate the symptoms and avoid surgery. Possible measures include

  • Wearing wrist splints: These reduce the strain on the median nerve, especially at night.
  • Taking painkillers: Anti-inflammatory medication can help to reduce the pressure on the nerve by locally reducing the swelling of any inflamed structures.
  • Physiotherapy and occupational therapy: Targeted exercises improve mobility and strengthen the hand muscles.
Person trägt eine Schütze für das Handgelenk beim Arbeiten

Surgical treatment

If conservative therapy is not sufficient or the symptoms are too severe, surgery is required. The operation is known as a carpal tunnel release. The carpal ligament is cut to reduce the pressure on the median nerve. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes and can be performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients report a significant improvement in their symptoms just a few days after the operation.

Your specialist for hand surgery in Vienna - Dr. Sebastian Farr

Priv.-Doz. Dr. Sebastian Farr is a specialist in orthopaedics and hand surgery with many years of experience as a senior physician at the Orthopaedic Hospital Speising. At his surgery in the 1st district, he offers comprehensive advice and individual treatment options for diseases and injuries of the hand and upper extremities. From diagnosis to treatment and aftercare, Dr. Farr will accompany you personally and attaches great importance to precise diagnostics and targeted treatment. The aim is to restore hand function in the best possible way and to alleviate pain in the long term.

Arrange a consultation today by e-mail, online or by telephone and let Priv.-Doz. Dr. Sebastian Farr personally about your treatment options – for more comfort, quality of life and an active life!

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Portrait von Dr. Sebastian Farr vor weißem Hintergrund

FAQ - frequently asked questions about carpal tunnel syndrome

Typical signs are numbness, discomfort and pain in the hand, which may worsen at night.

If the symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or worsen, an examination by a hand surgeon is advisable.

The recovery time varies depending on the type of work. Many patients can return to lighter activities after a few days. For more physically demanding jobs, it can take several weeks before full resilience is restored.

Yes, factors such as repetitive strain on the wrist, illnesses such as diabetes or rheumatism and pregnancy can increase the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.

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