Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes symptoms in one or both hands or wrists. Symptoms may include:

Tingling, burning, or numbness, especially in the thumb and index or middle fingers
Pain or numbness that worsens with:
- Wrist, hand, or finger movement
- Sleep (symptoms may wake you)
Hand stiffness or cramping that gets better after:
- Shaking the hand
- Waking up in the morning
Weakness or clumsiness of the hand
- Loss of grip strength
- Difficulty making a fist
- Frequently dropping things
Pain that moves up the arm

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine your arms, wrists, and hands. The physical exam will include tests of strength, sensation, and signs of nerve irritation or damage.

Other tests may include:

Electrodiagnostic exam (includes nerve conduction, and is commonly known as “ EMG ”)
MRI of the neck (cervical spine) is sometimes needed
X-ray

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2026 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.