What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition often experienced by people who use their hands repetitively in day-to-day activities, such as desk workers, musicians or assembly line workers. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve at the wrist, which results in hand numbness, loss of dexterity, muscle wasting and decreased functional ability in the hand.

Some people naturally have a smaller carpal tunnel than others, which can eventually lead to problems. In many cases the underlying cause cannot be found and in other cases there is a combination of factors. Causes can include:

•   Arthritis – arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, can cause inflammation and swelling.

•   Pregnancy – hormones associated with pregnancy cause general fluid retention, which can compress the nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome triggered by pregnancy usually goes away soon after birth.

•   Wrist Fractures – bone fragments from wrist fracture can irritate the tenosynovium or reduce the viable space in the carpal tunnel.

•   Repetitive Strain Injury – tendons in the carpal tunnel can become irritated and inflamed by awkward postures and repetitive hand movements.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome typically include:

•          Pain in hand and/or arm, particularly at night

•          Pain darting from wrist

•          Numbness

•          Tingling

•          Pins and needles

•          Weakness of the hand

Mild carpal tunnel symptoms can often be relieved by wearing a wrist or using anti-inflammatory medication.  However, if the nerve compression continues and symptoms persist then surgical intervention should be considered.  Surgery involves releasing the transverse carpal ligament of the wrist to decompress the nerve median nerve, and can be performed open or endoscopically.