One minute test can tell you if you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition that can cause discomfort but is highly treatable. Recognising symptoms is crucial to knowing when to seek help.

Dr Myro Figura, an anaesthesiologist and medical school educator from California, recently shared a quick 60-second test on TikTok that you can do at home to check for the condition. He starts his video by placing the back of his hands together.

"This is actually a medical test called the Phalen's test and it's the number one way to diagnose Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). Hold the back of your hands together and within 60 seconds if you have symptoms of numbness, tingling, pain in any of these three fingers [thumb, index and middle] you probably have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

"The reason why that works is because Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is impingement of median nerve at the wrist. This motion puts pressure on the nerve and that nerve innovates these three fingers."

CTS is a common issue, often triggered by work-related activities like typing and other repetitive movements. In some instances, it may be linked to arthritis of the wrist, thyroid disease and pregnancy.

The symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are often more severe at night and can disrupt your sleep, but you may feel them most acutely upon waking up in the morning. According to the NHS website, it's a condition that can often be self-managed, although recovery can take several months.

CTS can sometimes resolve on its own, especially if it's related to pregnancy. However, there are methods to quicken the healing process and prevent further pain.

A wrist splint, available online or at pharmacies, is worn on the hand to maintain the wrist in a straight position. This helps alleviate pressure on the nerve. The