Carpal Tunnel Pain refers to discomfort arising from irritation, inflammation, or gradual wear of the structures travelling through and within the Carpal Tunnel of the wrist. This pain is often accompanied by numbness in the fingers and palm, and may progress to weakness, reduced dexterity, or discomfort that travels up the arm. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects an estimated 3–6% of adults globally (Atroshi et al., 1999), making it one of the most common nerve compression conditions encountered in clinical practice.
Carpal Tunnel Pain occurs when the Median Nerve becomes compressed within the narrow anatomical passage formed by bones and ligaments in the wrist. This space allows tendons, blood vessels, and nerves to travel from the forearm into the hand, enabling movement and sensation. Compression of the Median Nerve results in pain felt in the areas of skin supplied by this nerve, as well as weakness in the muscles that this nerve controls. The Median Nerve is most commonly compressed by inflammation of the Tendons that run through the Carpal Tunnel, alongside this nerve. Research shows that the Carpal Tunnel itself is only about 2.5 cm wide, leaving little room for swelling or structural change (Klauser et al., 2009). When space is limited, even small increases in tendon volume can significantly increase pressure on the nerve.
The Median Nerve provides sensation to the palm and fingers and controls several small muscles essential for fine motor tasks. When this nerve is compressed, pain and sensory changes occur in the areas it supplies, and weakness may develop in the muscles it controls. Inflammation of the flexor tendons—often due to repetitive hand use—is the most common cause of this compression. Studies indicate that repetitive wrist and hand movements can increase the risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome by up to 2.3 times (Palmer et al., 2007). Tendon irritation may also arise from cysts, tumours, wrist trauma, or infection.
Tendon inflammation within the Carpal Tunnel can develop for many reasons. Repetitive use of machinery, styluses, or fine tools is a frequent contributor, particularly in occupations requiring precision or sustained hand activity. In Australia, work‑related Carpal Tunnel Syndrome accounts for approximately 21% of upper‑limb musculoskeletal claims (Safe Work Australia, 2020). Trauma, space‑occupying lesions, and systemic conditions can also play a role.
Management of Carpal Tunnel is a process that involves addressing physical, occupational, personal, and lifestyle risk factors to minimise pain and maximise function. These details are carefully explored during your first assessment, which sets the foundation for reducing pain and improving comfort. Your treatment plan will be personalised to target the underlying cause, with a focus on easing pain, restoring free movement, and building strategies to lower the chance of future flare-ups.
At Atlas Physio, we support you with clear education, structured management, and consistent monitoring of your progress both in the clinic and at home. We make care easy to access by opening seven days a week, offering evening appointments, providing bulk billing for eligible clients, and ensuring no gap fees for WorkCover or TAC clients. Get in touch today to take the first step toward feeling more comfortable, moving with confidence, and enjoying care that is practical, dependable, and designed to deliver lasting results.
REFERENCES
Atroshi, I., Gummesson, C., Johnsson, R., Ornstein, E., Ranstam, J., & Rosén, I. (1999). Prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome in a general population. JAMA, 282(2), 153–158.
Klauser, A. S., Halpern, E. J., De Zordo, T., Feuchtner, G. M., Arora, R., Gruber, J., & Martinoli, C. (2009). Carpal tunnel syndrome assessment with US: Value of additional cross-sectional area measurements of the median nerve in patients versus healthy volunteers. Radiology, 250(1), 171–177.
Palmer, K. T., Harris, E. C., & Coggon, D. (2007). Carpal tunnel syndrome and its relation to occupation: A systematic literature review. Occupational Medicine, 57(1), 57–66.
Safe Work Australia. (2020). Work-related musculoskeletal disorders in Australia. Retrieved 13th December 2025 from https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/system/files/documents/1912/work-related_musculoskeletal_disorders_in_australia_0.pdf