There are a number of non-surgical treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome.

This condition develops when a major nerve in the wrist (called the median nerve) is compressed or irritated. It's a common problem. The median nerve travels through a tight space in the wrist surrounded by bones and ligaments, called the carpal tunnel.

Symptoms include:

• Weakness of grip
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers (particularly the thumb, index and middle fingers)
• Discomfort in the hand, wrist or forearm

Many people try pain relievers (such as acetaminophen) or anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen), but studies suggest they are not always effective.

Options that are more effective include:

• Changing activities
  Avoid the actions that may have triggered carpal tunnel syndrome. For example, change the position of your wrist or raise your keyboard to avoid extending the wrist too much when typing.
• Wearing a splint
  Keep the wrist straight with a brace or splint. Often, the splint can be worn only at night.
• Injection of steroids
  Steroids reduce inflammation. This may relieve symptoms, though the benefits are often temporary.
• Treating any contributing conditions
  Rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or an underactive thyroid gland may trigger carpal tunnel syndrome. Treating these conditions may reduce symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Unfortunately, these conservative measures don't work for everyone. For them, surgery to decompress the median nerve is the only reliably effective treatment.