Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that results from the compression of the median nerve in the wrist. The median nerve provides sensation to the thumb and fingers, as well as motor control.
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include pain, numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness in the hand and fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by repetitive hand movements such as typing or playing video games for long periods of time. It can also be caused by pregnancy or rheumatoid arthritis.
This condition is diagnosed with a physical exam and tests such as an EMG. Treatment options are available for carpal tunnel syndrome including wrist splints, corticosteroid injections, surgery (carpal tunnel release), or surgery with a decompression technique (carpal tunnel decompression).
