Your doctor may recommend a carpal tunnel release procedure to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is often associated with repetitive actions of the hands and wrists. Examples include long-term keyboarding, use of vibrating tools, or assembly line jobs. These actions can cause swelling and increased pressure on the median nerve over time. This can lead to pain and numbness that can become disabling. Other conditions that are linked to carpal tunnel syndrome include diabetes, pregnancy, menopause, a hand or wrist injury, and rheumatoid arthritis. Doctors generally do not consider carpal tunnel release surgery unless less invasive treatments have been ineffective. Ask your doctor about all of your treatment options and consider getting a second opinion before deciding on carpal tunnel release. Other treatments include: Acupressure and acupuncture, which may help reduce pressure on the median nerve Anti-inflammatory medications, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and aspirin. NSAIDs treat carpal tunnel syndrome effectively, but long-term use can cause serious side effects. These include bleeding stomach ulcers and kidney problems. You should only take NSAIDs as directed by your healthcare provider. Changing or limiting repetitive motion or jarring activities of the hands and wrists. These include typing, keyboarding, sewing, performing dental work, and using a chainsaw or jackhammer. Corticosteroids to reduce the inflammation and pain of carpal tunnel syndrome. Corticosteroids are usually given through an injection into the carpal tunnel of the wrist. Ensuring that keyboards are placed low enough so that wrists are not flexed while working Not flexing the wrists for long periods of time. For example, your doctor may recommend that you wear a wrist brace at night to prevent your wrists from flexing while you are sleeping. Seeking regular medical care and following your treatment plan for underlying conditions. Conditions include acromegaly, diabetes, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, rheumatoid arthritis, and hand and wrist trauma and fractures.