Conditions we diagnose and treat

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in London

Available at LSRI Harley Street (W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London, Harrow (HA2 7SJ).

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve is squeezed as it passes through a narrow channel in the wrist called the carpal tunnel.

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GMC / FRCR Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist

It causes tingling, numbness and pain in the hand, often worse at night. It is common, especially in women, during pregnancy, and in people with diabetes, thyroid problems or arthritis. At LSRI, Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, uses ultrasound to look at the nerve and, where it is right for you, offers an ultrasound-guided injection.

Why choose LSRI

Consultant-led care from Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist with more than 20 years’ experience.
Diagnosis and ultrasound-guided treatment from the same specialist.
Two clinics: LSRI Harley Street (W1G 9QJ) and LSRI Northwest London in Harrow (HA2 7SJ).
No GP referral needed, and all major insurers accepted.
After Dr Sankaye has reported your scan, you can have a free 5-minute video consultation to go through the results.

Last medically reviewed by Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, on 2 October 2026.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

Tingling, pins and needles or numbness in the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger
Symptoms that wake you at night and ease when you shake your hand
Aching in the hand or forearm
Weak grip or clumsiness, such as dropping things

If you have constant numbness or noticeable weakness or wasting of the muscles at the base of the thumb, see a specialist promptly, as the nerve may need surgical release.

How we diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome

The diagnosis starts with your symptoms and an examination. Ultrasound shows whether the median nerve is swollen, and can reveal a cause such as a ganglion cyst, inflamed tendon sheaths or an anatomical variation. Nerve conduction studies, which measure how well the nerve works, may also be recommended, particularly if surgery is being considered.

What to expect at your appointment

Dr Sankaye reviews your symptoms and examines your hand and wrist.
The wrist is scanned with ultrasound to assess the median nerve and look for a cause.
You discuss the options, including whether an injection is right for you.
If you go ahead, the injection is guided by ultrasound so the needle stays clear of the nerve.
You receive aftercare advice. Symptoms usually start to improve within a few days to weeks.

Diagnostic ultrasound scans Real-time scans of joints, tendons and muscles

Treatment options

Wrist splints: worn at night to keep the wrist straight, which often helps mild symptoms.
Treating the cause: for example, symptoms in pregnancy often settle after the baby is born.
Ultrasound-guided steroid injection: placed into the carpal tunnel next to the nerve, without injecting into the nerve itself. Many people get good relief, although symptoms can return.
Surgery: carpal tunnel release is recommended if symptoms are severe, keep coming back, or there are signs of nerve damage. Dr Sankaye can advise when a hand surgeon’s opinion is worthwhile.

Read more about joint and soft-tissue injections at LSRI.

Questions about carpal tunnel syndrome

Why use ultrasound for the injection?

Ultrasound shows the nerve and the tendons, so the injection can be placed accurately around the nerve while avoiding the nerve itself.

How long does the injection last?

It varies. Some people have lasting relief, while others find symptoms return after a few months. It can also help confirm the diagnosis before surgery.

Can I have an injection while pregnant?

Carpal tunnel symptoms are common in pregnancy and often settle after birth. Splints are usually tried first. Discuss your options with your midwife or doctor and Dr Sankaye.

Do I need a nerve conduction study?

Not always, but it is often recommended before surgery or if the diagnosis is uncertain.

Our clinics

Two clinics, one team

Dr Prashant Sankaye, Consultant MSK Radiologist, sees patients at Harley Street in central London and at our Northwest London clinic in Harrow. Call one number to book at either clinic.