Wrist Pain on the Tools? What You Need to Know About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
If you're experiencing tingling, numbness, or weakness in your hands particularly at night or during repetitive manual tasks, you may be dealing with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. This condition is common among tradespeople due to the repetitive, high-impact nature of manual work. While some symptoms can be managed initially with splints, rest, or physiotherapy, persistent issues may require further evaluation and treatment.
What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed. This nerve provides sensation and motor function to parts of the hand, especially the thumb, index, and middle fingers. When compressed, it can result in:
Numbness or tingling (especially at night)
Hand or wrist pain
Weakness or clumsiness (including dropping tools)
These symptoms may worsen over time if not addressed, particularly in individuals who perform forceful or repetitive hand and wrist movements, or use vibrating tools frequently.
Do You Actually Have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Wrist pain, tingling, or numbness in the hands are common complaints among tradies, but they’re not always caused by carpal tunnel syndrome. Other work-related conditions can cause similar symptoms, particularly for those working in labour, including:
Neck or shoulder nerve compression from heavy lifting or overhead work
Forearm overuse injuries like pronator syndrome
Repetitive strain injuries (RSI) from using drills, jackhammers, or power tools
Tendonitis in the wrist or elbow (e.g. from gripping tools tightly)
Vibration-related nerve issues, common in those using vibrating machinery daily
Early osteoarthritis, particularly after years of manual labour
That’s why it’s essential to get a proper diagnosis. At the Carpal Tunnel Institute, we use ultrasound imaging to check the median nerve, combined with a thorough clinical assessment. This ensures we’re treating the actual cause of your symptoms, so you can get back to work.
Why Early Treatment Matters for Everyone, Especially Tradies
Delaying treatment can result in permanent nerve damage, where numbness or weakness becomes irreversible. We frequently see individuals who postpone care until daily tasks such as holding a mug or turning a screwdriver become difficult or painful. If your livelihood depends on your hands, early intervention can help preserve function, avoid chronic pain, and reduce the need for more complex surgery in future.
If you’re a tradesperson experiencing persistent hand or wrist symptoms and have already tried braces, rest, or physiotherapy without lasting relief, it’s time to seek specialist assessment.
Book a consultation at the Carpal Tunnel Institute to receive a clear diagnosis and discuss your best treatment options including our minimally invasive carpal tunnel release procedure designed to get you back to work safely and quickly.