Carpal Tunnel Steroid Injection

Do you wake up with numbness, tingling, or pain in your hands or fingers? You may have carpal tunnel syndrome - a common nerve compression condition affecting the wrist. A carpal tunnel steroid injection can relieve the pressure on the nerve and quickly reduce pain, tingling and discomfort.

We provide precise carpal tunnel injections - a simple, non-surgical way to treat symptoms and avoid or delay surgery.

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve - which runs through a narrow tunnel in your wrist - becomes compressed or irritated. The pressure causes symptoms such as:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index and middle fingers
• Weakness in grip or dropping objects
• Pain or burning sensation, especially at night

A carpal tunnel syndrome steroid injection targets this inflammation directly at the wrist to relieve pressure on the nerve.

How a Carpal Tunnel Injection Works

A carpal tunnel injection delivers a small amount of corticosteroid (steroid) medication into the carpal tunnel space in the wrist. This reduces swelling around the nerve, relieving pain and tingling.

• Reduces inflammation around the median nerve
• Decreases pain, tingling and numbness
• Improves grip strength and function
• Can help avoid or delay surgery

What to Expect During the Procedure

1. Assessment: your doctor confirms the diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome and checks suitability for injection.
2. Preparation: the wrist is cleaned and positioned comfortably.
3. Injection: a fine needle delivers a small amount of steroid into the carpal tunnel.
4. Aftercare: the hand may feel numb for a few hours; avoid heavy activity for the rest of the day.

The whole procedure takes only 10-15 minutes and requires no incision or stitches.

How Long Does a Carpal Tunnel Steroid Injection Last?

• Pain relief may start within a few days.
• Improvement often continues for 1-2 weeks.
• Relief can last from several weeks to several months, depending on how severe the nerve compression is.

Many people find the injection helps them sleep better and use their hand more comfortably within days.

Who Can Benefit from a Carpal Tunnel Injection?

This treatment is suitable if you have:

• Typical symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (pain, tingling, numbness)
• Symptoms worse at night or when gripping
• Early or moderate nerve compression (before severe muscle weakness)
• Previous benefit from injections or want to avoid surgery

Your doctor will assess your wrist and nerve symptoms to ensure an injection is the right option for you.

Aftercare and Recovery

• Rest your hand for 24 hours after the injection
• Avoid repetitive gripping or typing for a day or two
• Use an ice pack if you feel mild soreness
• You can resume normal activities gradually as comfort returns

Some patients feel temporary numbness from the anaesthetic or mild tingling known as a steroid flare, which usually settles within 24-48 hours.

Do Carpal Tunnel Injections Work?

Clinical studies show that carpal tunnel steroid injections can be very effective in reducing pain and swelling, especially in mild-to-moderate cases. Many patients notice:

• Better hand function
• Improved sleep quality
• Less need for night splints or tablets

In some cases, symptoms can return over time, and a repeat injection may be recommended if necessary.