Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Discover how Doxa Specialist Clinic in Saint Lucia helps you find lasting relief from wrist pain and nerve compression.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common nerve condition caused by the compression of the median nerve, which runs from the forearm through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, and into the hand. This nerve controls sensation and muscle movement in parts of the hand, especially the thumb and first three fingers.

When the space within the carpal tunnel becomes restricted—due to swelling, repetitive motion, or anatomical factors—it can put pressure on the median nerve, leading to discomfort and reduced hand function.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

If you’ve noticed unusual sensations in your hand or wrist, especially during work or at night, you could be experiencing early signs of CTS. The most common symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.

• A weak grip, making it harder to hold objects or perform fine motor tasks.

• Symptoms worsening at night, often waking you from sleep and prompting you to "shake out" your hands.

Left untreated, CTS can lead to muscle wasting at the base of the thumb, long-term nerve damage, and chronic pain.

What Causes CTS?

CTS is often multifactorial and can develop gradually over time. Common causes include:

• Repetitive hand or wrist movements, especially from typing, assembly work, or sports.

• Medical conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or thyroid dysfunction.

• Wrist injuries, such as sprains or fractures.

• Pregnancy, which can cause fluid retention and increased pressure in the carpal tunnel.

Genetic predisposition—such as having a smaller carpal tunnel—can also increase the risk.

Diagnosis: How We Identify CTS

At Doxa Specialist Clinic in Saint Lucia, we use a combination of clinical evaluation, nerve conduction studies, and musculoskeletal ultrasound to confirm a CTS diagnosis. During your consultation, our orthopedic and pain management specialists will assess hand function, ask about symptom patterns, and may perform specific physical tests like Tinel’s sign or the Phalen maneuver.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Managing CTS effectively depends on its severity and the underlying cause. Here’s how we approach it:

1. Wrist Splinting

Wearing a neutral wrist splint, especially at night, can relieve pressure on the median nerve and prevent symptom flare-ups. This is often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate CTS.

2. Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce swelling and discomfort. In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended for short-term relief.

3. Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists at Doxa Specialist Clinic offer targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the wrist and forearm muscles. Manual therapy, nerve gliding techniques, and ergonomic adjustments are also used to reduce pressure on the nerve.

4. Surgical Intervention

For patients with severe or persistent CTS not responding to conservative treatment, a minor outpatient surgery called carpal tunnel release may be recommended. This procedure involves cutting the ligament pressing on the nerve to relieve pressure and restore normal function.

Our clinic provides personalized post-op rehabilitation plans to ensure a quick and smooth recovery.

When Should You See a Specialist?

If your symptoms have lasted more than a few weeks, or if they interfere with daily activities like writing, driving, or lifting, it’s time to consult a specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage.

Why Choose Doxa Specialist Clinic for CTS Treatment?

Located conveniently along the Castries Gros Islet Highway in Saint Lucia, Doxa Specialist Clinic offers a multidisciplinary approach to managing carpal tunnel syndrome:

• Orthopedic expertise for structural wrist assessments

• Pain management to alleviate discomfort non-invasively

• Rehabilitation services with hands-on physiotherapy and custom treatment plans

Our goal is to help you regain hand function and return to work, hobbies, and everyday life—without pain or limitation.