Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Testing Sydney | Nerve Conduction Study | East Neurology

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Testing Sydney

Expert Nerve Conduction Studies for Accurate Diagnosis of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This compression causes numbness, tingling, and pain in your hand and fingers, particularly affecting your thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.

Did you know? Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common nerve compression disorders, affecting approximately 3-6% of adults. Early diagnosis through nerve conduction testing can prevent permanent nerve damage and help you return to normal activities faster.

Common Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Nighttime Hand Numbness

Waking up with numb, tingling hands that feel like they've "fallen asleep." Many patients shake their hands to relieve symptoms.

Tingling in Fingers

Pins and needles sensation in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers (but typically not the little finger).

Weakness in Hand

Difficulty gripping objects, dropping things frequently, or trouble with fine motor tasks like buttoning shirts.

Wrist Pain

Pain radiating from the wrist up the forearm or down into the palm and fingers, often worse with repetitive activities.

Burning Sensation

A burning or electric shock-like feeling shooting into your fingers, especially during activities like driving or holding a phone.

Loss of Sensation

Decreased ability to distinguish hot from cold or difficulty sensing objects in your hand.

Why Choose Nerve Conduction Testing for Carpal Tunnel?

Nerve conduction studies are the gold standard diagnostic test for carpal tunnel syndrome, with over 90% accuracy. This objective test measures how well electrical signals travel through your median nerve, confirming the diagnosis and determining the severity of nerve compression.

Initial Assessment

Our neurologist reviews your symptoms, medical history, and examines your hands and wrists. We discuss your concerns and what you've been experiencing.

Nerve Conduction Study

Small electrical pulses stimulate the median nerve at specific points. Surface electrodes record how fast and how well the nerve conducts signals. The test takes 20-30 minutes and most patients describe it as tolerable with a tapping sensation.

EMG Testing (If Needed)

In some cases, a fine needle EMG may be performed to assess muscle health and rule out other conditions affecting the hand muscles.

Immediate Results & Discussion

You receive your results and diagnosis on the same day. Our neurologist explains the findings, severity of compression, and discusses treatment options including conservative management or surgical referral if needed.

Report to Your Doctor

A comprehensive report is sent to your referring doctor the same day, enabling prompt treatment planning.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Understanding the cause helps guide treatment. Common causes include:

Repetitive hand movements: Typing, assembly line work, using vibrating tools
Wrist position: Prolonged flexion or extension of the wrist
Pregnancy: Fluid retention causing swelling in the carpal tunnel
Diabetes: Increased risk of nerve compression
Thyroid disorders: Can increase swelling around nerves
Rheumatoid arthritis: Inflammation affecting the wrist structures
Wrist injuries: Fractures or sprains that alter wrist anatomy

Frequently Asked Questions

Is carpal tunnel testing painful? +

Most patients describe the nerve conduction test as tolerable rather than painful. You'll feel brief electrical pulses that create a tapping sensation and may cause the muscles to twitch. The discomfort is temporary and there are no lasting effects after the test.

How accurate is nerve conduction testing for carpal tunnel syndrome? +

Nerve conduction studies are highly accurate (over 90%) for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. The test objectively measures median nerve function and can detect even mild compression before symptoms become severe.

How long does carpal tunnel testing take? +

The complete nerve conduction study for carpal tunnel syndrome typically takes 20-30 minutes. You'll receive your results immediately after the test, and a detailed report is sent to your doctor the same day.

Do I need a referral for carpal tunnel testing in Sydney? +

Yes, a referral from your GP or specialist is required to receive Medicare rebates for nerve conduction studies. If you don't have a referral, we can help guide you on obtaining one.

What should I do to prepare for the test? +

Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your arms and hands. Remove rings, bracelets, and watches before the test. Try to keep your hands warm as cold temperatures can affect nerve conduction measurements.

Can carpal tunnel syndrome be cured without surgery? +

Many cases of mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome can be successfully managed without surgery through wrist splinting (especially at night), activity modification, ergonomic adjustments, anti-inflammatory medications, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. Nerve conduction testing helps determine the severity and guides treatment decisions.

How soon can I get tested in Sydney? +

We offer nerve conduction testing every week (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) with minimal wait times. Most other practices have 4-6 week waiting lists. Book online or call us to schedule your appointment.

Serving Sydney's Eastern Suburbs

Our Bondi Junction clinic is conveniently located and easily accessible from Bondi, Bondi Beach, Bronte, Coogee, Double Bay, Rose Bay, Randwick, Woollahra, Paddington, and throughout Sydney's eastern suburbs. With excellent public transport links and nearby parking, we make carpal tunnel testing convenient for all Sydney residents.

Ready to Get Your Carpal Tunnel Diagnosis?

Same-day results • Expert neurologist • No long wait times

Book Your Nerve Test Now

Call Us 02 9388 0615

Location Suite 301, Bondi Junction

Email reception@eastneurology.com.au