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Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Authors:
  • Cynthia M. Johnson, MA
Publication Type:

Condition InDepth

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes symptoms in one or both hands. Problems start slowly and get worse over time. They may be:

  • Numbness, tingling, and swelling in the palm of the hand and fingers
  • Pain from the wrist that may spread to the shoulder
  • Loss of grip strength
  • Problems that worsen with wrist, hand, or finger motions
  • Pain that goes away when shaking hands and wrists out
  • Loss of feeling in the hand and fingers

References

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome. American Society for Surgery of the Hand website. Available at: https://handcare.assh.org/Anatomy/Details-Page/ArticleID/27950/Carpal-Tunnel-Syndrome. Accessed May 3, 2022.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/carpal-tunnel-syndrome. Accessed May 3, 2022.
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome fact sheet. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke website. Available at: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/patient-caregiver-education/fact-sheets/carpal-tunnel-syndrome-fact-sheet. Accessed May 3, 2022.
  • Clinical Practice Guideline on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons website. Available at: https://www.aaos.org/quality/quality-programs/upper-extremity-programs/carpal-tunnel-syndrome. Accessed May 3, 2022.

Contributors

  • James P. Cornell, MD
Last Updated:
2022-03-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.