Bengaluru Doctors Report Surge in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Among Young IT Workers

Doctors across hospitals in Bengaluru are reporting a marked rise in cases of carpal tunnel syndrome among young professionals, driven by extended hours on laptops, repetitive wrist movements, and prolonged smartphone use.

Medical experts noted that many young working adults, particularly women working in the information technology sector, are presenting with advanced stages of nerve compression after ignoring early warning signs for months.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which passes through a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed. Patients typically experience burning pain and pins-and-needles sensations in their hands. As the compression worsens, it can cause motor weakness, loss of dexterity, and wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb.

Dr Pratham R Bysani, consultant neurosurgeon at Vasavi Hospitals, stated that patients often report tingling and numbness that begins at night, affecting the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. If left unaddressed, patients can develop disturbed sleep, severe pain, reduced grip strength, and difficulty holding objects.

Dr BK Madhusudhan, lead consultant in neurology at Aster RV Hospital in Bengaluru, noted that the condition is growing among youngsters and that factors such as genetics, hypothyroidism, nature of work, weight, and physical activity can also contribute. He advised that because similar symptoms can arise from neck or other nervous issues, patients should seek clinical advice rather than self-medicating.

Dr Arjun Srivatsa, director at the Institute of Brain and Spine at Sakra World Hospital, highlighted that younger adults face increased risk when repetitive tasks are combined with poor wrist positioning.

To manage mild cases, doctors recommend taking regular breaks, maintaining neutral wrist posture, improving ergonomics, and using wrist splints. For severe cases or those unresponsive to conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be required. Dr Bysani noted that endoscopic carpal tunnel release, conducted through a small wrist incision, offers faster recovery compared to conventional open surgery.