Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The median nerve controls sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers, and when it is compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist.
Causes
CTS is often caused by a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve and tendons in the carpal tunnel, such as:
- Repetitive hand use: Activities that involve repetitive wrist and hand movements, such as typing, assembly line work, or using hand tools.
- Wrist anatomy: Some individuals may have smaller carpal tunnels, making them more prone to developing the condition.
- Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid disorders, and obesity can increase the risk of developing CTS.
- Injury: Trauma or injury to the wrist can cause swelling, compressing the median nerve.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Numbness or tingling: Often in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, particularly at night.
- Hand weakness: Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks.
- Pain: May radiate from the wrist up the arm or down into the fingers.
- Clumsiness: Dropping objects due to weakened grip strength.
Diagnosis
CTS is typically diagnosed through:
- Physical examination: Tests such as Tinel’s sign (tapping the median nerve) or Phalen’s maneuver (bending the wrist) may provoke symptoms.
- Nerve conduction studies: These tests measure the electrical activity of the median nerve to assess its function.
- Electromyography (EMG): Can help determine if there is muscle damage or other nerve-related issues.
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent permanent nerve damage and help improve symptoms significantly.