When to Seek Medical Care

If your symptoms last a long time and are not relieved with recommended home care, you should see your doctor.

Carpal tunnel syndrome israrely an emergency. Milder cases of carpal tunnel syndrome have been shown to respond to nonsurgical treatment. The first line of treatment for mild carpal tunnel syndrome is to wear a wrist brace. This has been shown to relieve the symptoms from the carpal tunnel by placing the wrist in a neutral position and reducing the nerve irritation. If carpal tunnel syndrome persists for a long time, permanent nerve injury is possible that will cause numbness and weakness in the hand. Treatment is directed at preservation of hand function.