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Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include a dull ache in the hand or forearm, which can sometimes spread to the upper arm, a sensation in the hand which feels similar to pins and needles.

Other symptoms also include dry skin, swelling or changes in the skin colour of the hand, becoming less sensitive to touch and weakness of the muscles at the base of the thumb.

Experts have said symptoms can get worse first thing in the morning - or even late at night and can stop people getting to sleep.

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What is CTS?

Arthritis Research UK said carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve is squeezed where it passes through the wrist.

It added: The median nerve controls some of the muscles that move the thumb; it also carries information back to the brain about sensations in your thumb and fingers.

The nerve controls sensation and movement in the hands.

NHS Choices said: The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in your wrist made up of small bones and a tough band of tissue which acts as a pulley for the tendons which bend the fingers.

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The median nerve controls some of the muscles that move the thumb; it also carries information back to the brain about sensations in your thumb and fingers

Arthritis Research UK

The condition can be triggered by pregnancy or injuries to the wrist.

However it can also be triggered by strenuous or repetitive work with the hands, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis Research UK said: One of the possible causes include any form of arthritis in the wrist if theres swelling of the wrist joint or the tendons that run through the carpal tunnel.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints and mainly affects the hands feet and wrists.

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Natalie Carter, head of research liaison and evaluation at Arthritis Research UK said: Arthritis Research is currently funding a study at Keele University to find out more about the effectiveness of common treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome, to offer the best treatment options for people affected by this painful condition. We would advise anyone worried about carpal tunnel syndrome to talk to their doctor about their treatment plan. Suggested treatment will depend on how severe the compression of the nerve is.

"There are few simple things that can alleviate symptoms such as a resting splint for your wrist, particularly at night, or a working splint if your symptoms are brought on by a particular activity. A steroid injection can be helpful, although the effect may wear off after few weeks. If theres a severe compression of the median nerve, or if the numbness and pain doesnt improve with other treatments, surgery may be the only option. This relieves pain by reducing the pressure on the median nerve. Surgery is usually completed within a day, and you can expect to recover in less than a month. For most people, the surgery is successful treating the condition. For further information on the condition and helpful exercises, visit http://www.arthritisresearchuk.org.

Read more:
Arthritis could be causing THIS common syndrome - causing ... - Express.co.uk

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