Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel at the wrist, and include numbness, tingling, burning and a dull ache in the hand and fingers, usually occurring at night, often waking the patient from sleep, but can be relieved within a few minutes by shaking the hand. Pain can sometimes radiate up the forearm; other symptoms can include weakness or clumsiness of the hand, dry skin, swelling or colour changes in the hand.