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HCA UK Outpatients & Diagnostics The Shard, 32 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9BS
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In today’s digital world, we rely more than ever on technology to work, communicate and relax. Whether it’s typing on a laptop, scrolling on a smartphone, or gaming on a tablet, many of us spend hours each day using our hands and wrists in repetitive ways.
While technology has brought huge benefits, it has also contributed to a rise in certain musculoskeletal conditions – one of the most common being Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed or irritated. This tunnel is a narrow passageway made up of bones and ligaments.
Repetitive hand movements, awkward wrist positions, and prolonged periods of typing or gripping can all lead to inflammation and narrowing within this space, increasing pressure on the nerve.
With the rise of desk-based jobs, smartphones, and gaming, many people are spending long stretches in static wrist positions with little variation or rest. Over time, this can strain the tissues in the wrist and lead to nerve irritation.
Poor ergonomic set-ups at home and at work, particularly since the increase in remote working, have only amplified this problem.
Recognising the symptoms of CTS early is key to preventing long-term damage. The condition often starts subtly, with occasional tingling or numbness in the thumb, index, and middle fingers – especially at night. Many patients notice they wake up needing to “shake out” their hands. As the condition progresses, these symptoms can become more frequent and severe, with some people experiencing weakness in grip, difficulty holding objects, or persistent pain radiating up the forearm.
It’s important not to ignore these signs. When caught early, CTS can often be managed without the need for surgery.
Most Common Signs and Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:
In the initial stages, a number of conservative (non-surgical) treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent progression. These may include:
Lifestyle adjustments, such as weight management and managing underlying conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism, can also play a supportive role in symptom management.
If conservative treatment doesn’t relieve symptoms, particularly when there is significant pain, muscle wasting, or functional impairment, then carpal tunnel release surgery may be recommended. This is a fairly straightforward procedure where the transverse carpal ligament is divided to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
There are two main techniques: open surgery and endoscopic (keyhole) surgery.
Both are typically done under local anaesthetic and are usually day procedures.
The choice of approach depends on individual circumstances and surgeon recommendations.
At London Bridge Orthopaedics, our consultants take a patient-centred and conservative-first approach to care.
Wherever possible, they will explore non-surgical treatment options before recommending an operation, ensuring that surgery is only considered in more severe or persistent cases where other methods have not provided relief.
Our team believes in clear and open communication, and will always take the time to explain all available options; from splinting and injections to surgery. They will ensure that you have a good understanding of your treatment, including the potential benefits and risks of each.
We respect that every patient’s circumstances and preferences are different, and our consultants will support you in making an informed decision that feels right for you. Ultimately, it’s your choice, and we’re here to guide you with expertise, empathy, and transparency.
After surgery, patients are encouraged to start moving their fingers immediately to prevent stiffness and promote circulation. Most people can return to light daily activities within a few days, although full recovery, particularly for grip strength and fine hand function, can take several weeks.
Complications are rare, but as with any surgery, risks include infection, nerve irritation, or sensitivity at the scar site.
Returning to work and daily routines after carpal tunnel surgery should be gradual and supported by appropriate workplace modifications. These might include using an ergonomic keyboard or mouse, adjusting desk height and chair support, or employing voice-recognition software to reduce repetitive typing. Employers should be encouraged to carry out workplace assessments, and employees should take regular breaks to stretch and move.
Preventative strategies such as strengthening exercises, posture correction, and early attention to any recurrence of symptoms can help ensure long-term success and reduce the risk of further injury.
At London Bridge Orthopaedics, we understand the impact that Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can have on your quality of life and ability to work. That’s why we offer specialist care from a team of three highly experienced hand and wrist consultants, each with extensive expertise in diagnosing and treating carpal tunnel and related conditions.
Whether you’re seeking advice on early symptoms, need tailored conservative care, or are considering surgery, our team can guide you every step of the way with the most up-to-date knowledge and techniques available.
If you’re concerned about wrist or hand symptoms, we’re here to help you take the next step toward recovery. Book an appointment today.
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