How to recognize and treat carpal tunnel syndrome
With carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a nerve known as the median nerve (nervus medianus) becomes compressed as it runs from the arm through the wrist to the hand and fingers. Nerve compression can be very painful and may lead to unpleasant symptoms. Think, for example, of hitting your so-called “funny bone.” Common complaints include tingling, loss of strength, or numb fingers. People with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience these symptoms constantly or to a severe degree.
Causes of carpal tunnel syndrome
Pressure within the carpal tunnel can increase due to several factors: poor working posture, repeated incorrect movements of the hand or wrist, trauma, hormonal changes (such as during pregnancy or menopause), rheumatoid arthritis, or diabetes. Symptoms often occur during the day but tend to become particularly severe at night.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome
You may experience several complaints, including:
- Pain in the wrist and/or hand
- Numbness in the hand and/or fingers
- Tingling in the hand and/or fingers
- A “dead” or numb feeling in the hand and/or fingers
- Loss of strength in the hand and/or fingers
Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome
In many cases, carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated effectively with a combination of rest, physiotherapy, and wearing a night wrist brace. A physiotherapist can guide you with targeted stretching exercises and mobilization techniques, such as traction, to help reduce pressure in the carpal tunnel. In addition, it is important to reduce strain on the wrist during the day and avoid repetitive, stressful movements to prevent symptoms from recurring.
Wearing a wrist brace at night plays a crucial role: it prevents the wrist from bending unconsciously during sleep, which could further compress the nerve.
At ProBrace, you will find several wrist braces that can be effectively used for CTS:
Ligaflex Classic wrist brace: Provides firm support, allowing the wrist to rest optimally and supporting the recovery process.
Basko Wrist Lacer wrist brace: Equipped with a moldable aluminum splint that offers maximum stability, comparable in support to a cast.
Össur FormFit wrist brace: A practical and affordable brace with hook-and-loop fastening, easy to put on with one hand and very user-friendly.
Wrist braces are generally recommended for at least six weeks, especially during the night. This gives the wrist the rest it needs to significantly reduce symptoms.
Last updated on October 30, 2025, to ensure all information about carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) remains relevant.
