Is carpal tunnel syndrome a long lasting condition? is it that once you get it you always have it?

Not always: Carpal tunnel can be a chronic condition or can occur after acute trauma or injury. Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve at the level of the wrist. Carpal tunnel symptoms may improve after rest and bracing. However, in more severe cases, it does not usually resolve on its own without surgical release.

Yes: Although the frequency and severity of symptoms may vary, once you have cts, it does not go away. It can be temporarily worse during pregnancy. Many people can get by with conservative care. It it gets too bothersome, surgery has a very good success rate.