This condition involves the compression of the median nerve at the wrist.
NICE guidelines for management of carpal tunnel syndrome in primary care:
What we will see
- Early <6 months intermittent pins and needles in median nerve distribution (thumb/index/middle and half ring finger).
What we won’t see
The following should be referred to secondary care:
- Persistent pins and needles +/- muscle weakness and wasting in median nerve distribution (thumb/index/middle and half ring finger)
- The diagnosis is unclear.
- There are persistent symptoms despite a trial of conservative treatment(s) in primary care.
- There are progressive symptoms or severe disease impacting on daily function.
- There are recurrent or persistent symptoms following carpal tunnel surgery.
Secondary care options include Plastic Surgery/Hand Surgery or Neurology
Nocturnal wrist splint to hold the wrist in a neutral position.
