Initial treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome is...

• A. Volar wrist splint at night
• B. NSAID
• C. Surgical decompression
• D. Corticosteroid injection

Answer: (A)

Keeping the wrist in a neutral position to reduce median nerve compression is the first-line approach for mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome. Using a volar wrist splint at night prevents flexion and ulnar deviation that worsen pressure inside the carpal tunnel during sleep, which often relieves nocturnal numbness and improves function. Noninvasive and safe, this option targets the underlying issue of compression rather than just pain. NSAIDs may help with discomfort but don’t address the nerve compression, so they aren’t the best initial choice. Corticosteroid injections can provide quicker relief but are typically used after splinting or when surgery is being considered, and they don’t offer durable long-term benefit for most patients. Surgical decompression is reserved for cases that fail conservative treatment or show signs of nerve damage.