Elbow Wrist and Hand

Carpal Tunnel

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers.

Sign and Symptoms

Repetitive hand and wrist movements: Occupations or activities involving repetitive motions, like typing, assembly line work, or using tools, can strain the tendons in the carpal tunnel, leading to inflammation and nerve compression.
Medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, hypothyroidism, and obesity can contribute to nerve compression.
Pregnancy and menopause: Hormonal changes during these periods can cause fluid retention and swelling, potentially increasing pressure within the carpal tunnel.
Anatomy: Some individuals may have a smaller carpal tunnel to begin with, making them more susceptible.
Injuries: Wrist fractures or dislocations can also damage the carpal tunnel and compress the nerve.
Space-occupying lesions: Ganglion cysts or tumors within the carpal tunnel can also compress the nerve.

Why it Happens?

Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations, primarily in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers.
Pain that may radiate up the forearm towards the shoulder.
Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects or perform fine motor skills.
Nighttime symptoms are common, with numbness and tingling waking individuals from sleep.
In severe cases, muscle wasting (atrophy) in the thumb and a loss of sensation, including the ability to distinguish hot from cold.