Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. It's one of the most common nerve entrapment conditions, affecting about 3-6% of adults.¹

Symptoms²

• Numbness/tingling in thumb, index, middle fingers
• Pain in hand and wrist
• Symptoms often worse at night
• Weakness in thumb
• Dropping objects
• May radiate up arm

Risk Factors

• Repetitive hand motions
• Female sex
• Pregnancy
• Diabetes
• Thyroid disorders
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Obesity

Diagnosis

• Clinical examination
• Phalen's and Tinel's tests
• Nerve conduction studies (confirm diagnosis)

Treatment³

Conservative

• Wrist splinting (especially at night)
• Activity modification
• NSAIDs
• Corticosteroid injection
• Ergonomic changes

Surgery

• Carpal tunnel release
• Very effective for most patients
• Outpatient procedure
• Consider if conservative treatment fails

Prevention Tips

• Take breaks from repetitive tasks
• Keep wrists in neutral position
• Ergonomic workstation setup
• Stretching exercises

References

1. Atroshi I, Gummesson C, Johnsson R, et al. Prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome in a general population. JAMA. 1999;282(2):153-158.
2. Padua L, Coraci D, Erra C, et al. Carpal tunnel syndrome: clinical features, diagnosis, and management. Lancet Neurol. 2016;15(12):1273-1284.
3. Keith MW, Masear V, Amadio PC, et al. Treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2009;17(6):397-405.