Carpal Tunnel Injection Therapy
Specialist assessment and corticosteroid injection therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome
Make an injection enquiryWhat Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through a narrow space at the wrist called the carpal tunnel.
It can cause tingling, numbness, burning discomfort or pain in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and part of the ring finger. Symptoms are often more noticeable at night and may disturb sleep. Some people find themselves shaking or moving their hand to relieve the symptoms.
As the condition progresses, symptoms may become more persistent. Grip can feel weaker, fine hand movements may become difficult and objects may be dropped more frequently.
When Might an Injection Be Considered?
A corticosteroid injection may be considered when the symptoms and clinical assessment are consistent with carpal tunnel syndrome and simpler measures, such as a night splint, have not provided sufficient relief.
It may be particularly relevant when pain, tingling or disturbed sleep is significantly affecting everyday life but there is no evidence of advanced or irreversible nerve damage.
The decision is not based on symptoms alone. Your specialist will assess the pattern of altered sensation, strength, hand function and other possible causes of your symptoms before recommending treatment.
What Can a Corticosteroid Injection Do?
Corticosteroid is an anti-inflammatory medicine. When introduced into the carpal tunnel, it may reduce swelling and irritation around the median nerve, creating more space for the nerve within the tunnel.
This can relieve tingling, pain and night-time symptoms, although the response varies between individuals. Relief may be temporary, and symptoms can return after several weeks or months.
An injection does not permanently enlarge the carpal tunnel or reverse established nerve damage. Its role is therefore different for every patient: it may provide a period of symptom relief, support non-surgical management or help inform the next stage of treatment.
Learn About Corticosteroid Injections→
Will I Need Nerve Tests or Imaging?
Nerve-conduction studies are not always necessary before treatment. Carpal tunnel syndrome can often be identified from the history and clinical examination.
Testing may be helpful when the diagnosis is uncertain, the symptoms are unusual, significant nerve compression is suspected or surgery is being considered. Your specialist will explain whether further investigation or a medical referral would be appropriate.
Other Treatment Options
A wrist splint that holds the wrist in a neutral position overnight is often an appropriate first step. Changes to aggravating activities and management of relevant health conditions may also be helpful.
If symptoms are severe, progressive or repeatedly return following non-surgical treatment, carpal tunnel decompression surgery may need to be considered. Injection therapy should be viewed as one possible part of the treatment pathway rather than an automatic alternative to surgery.
Specialist Carpal Tunnel Injection in Fareham
Assessment and injection therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome are provided at our Fareham clinic by Mike Gillingham, Upper Limb Specialist Physiotherapist.
Mike will assess whether your symptoms are genuinely consistent with median-nerve compression at the wrist, whether corticosteroid injection is appropriate and whether nerve testing, rehabilitation or surgical assessment should be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel Injections
Can an injection cure carpal tunnel syndrome?
How quickly might the injection work?
How long might the benefit last?
Will I need to wear a wrist splint as well?
Can carpal tunnel syndrome affect both hands?
Do I need a GP referral?
Not Sure Whether an Injection Is Appropriate?
You do not need to know whether corticosteroid is the correct treatment before contacting us. Tell us about your shoulder symptoms, how long they have been present and how they are affecting you. You can complete our short form, telephone us or email us.
Your enquiry will be reviewed by our upper-limb specialist before treatment is arranged.
