Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects hand and wrist; the patient usually suffers from many related symptoms such as; tingling, numbness, pain and limited mobility of the affected hand.

Carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the median nerve (the main nerve in the forearm which extends to the hand through a narrow space called carpal tunnel) is compressed due to narrowing in the carpal tunnel region; this narrowing is usually due to:

• Exaggerated hand movement (when the wrist is usually bent for long time as in writing or using computer).
• Limb edema related to pregnancy.
• Hypothyroidism
• Diabetes
• Rheumatoid arthritis.

 Management of carpal tunnel syndrome away from surgery includes the following measure:

1. Applying ice packs on the affected wrist for 10-15 minutes every 3-4 hours.
2. Gentle exercise and movement of hand and wrist.
3. Using a wrist splint to limit the movement of the affected wrist joint.
4. Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) to reduce the inflammatory reactions caused by inflamed wrist joint.
5. Applying hot bathes (with a temperature between 92-100 º F) on the affected wrist.

Finally, if all above measures failed to eliminate these annoying symptoms (especially pain and numbness), surgery will be the only available choice after doctor consultation.