Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Patient Emergency Action Plan

When to Seek Immediate Care

Emergency Warning Signs

• Sudden, severe pain in the wrist or hand
• Complete loss of feeling in fingers or thumb
• Inability to move thumb or fingers
• Visible injury or trauma to the wrist area
• Signs of infection (redness, warmth, swelling, fever)

Immediate Actions

Step 1: Stop Activity

• Immediately cease any activity causing pain
• Remove any restrictive jewelry
• Elevate the affected hand above heart level

Step 2: Apply Ice

• Use ice pack for 15-20 minutes
• Wrap ice in thin towel (never apply directly to skin)
• Repeat every 2-3 hours if needed

Step 3: Immobilize

• If you have a wrist brace, apply it
• Keep wrist in neutral position
• Avoid extreme flexion or extension

Emergency Contact Information

During Office Hours

• Call clinic: [Insert clinic phone]
• Ask for urgent evaluation

After Hours

• Visit nearest emergency department if severe symptoms present
• Contact on-call physician: [Insert number]

Prevention of Future Episodes

Daily Management

• Take prescribed medications as directed
• Maintain proper ergonomics
• Perform recommended exercises
• Use splints as prescribed

Follow-up Care

• Schedule follow-up appointment within 24-48 hours of acute episode
• Bring symptom diary to appointment
• Document any new or changed symptoms