Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve disorder of the hand caused by compression of the median nerve. The median nerve gets squeezed inside a narrow passage in the wrist called the carpal tunnel. This nerve provides feeling to the thumb, index and middle fingers, and half the ring finger.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is created by pressure on the median nerve caused by the narrowing of the carpal tunnel. The narrowing can be caused by a variety of factors including:
A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.
Risk factors include:
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes symptoms in one or both hands or wrists. Symptoms may include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and examine your arms, wrists, and hands. The physical exam will include tests of strength, sensation, and signs of nerve irritation or damage.
Other tests may include:
It is important to correct whatever is causing the carpal tunnel syndrome. Sometimes making simple changes in your workplace or home may help relieve symptoms.
Treatment may also include:
A splint will prevent extreme movements of the wrist. It's most effective when worn at night and can help avoid waking up with symptoms.
Surgery may be needed if symptoms are severe or continue after trying other treatments. The most common procedure is the carpal tunnel release .
If you are diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, follow your doctor's instructions .
You may reduce your chances of getting carpal tunnel syndrome by taking these steps:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons
http://www.aaos.org/
American Association of Neurological Surgeons
http://www.aans.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety
http://www.ccohs.ca/
Physical Therapy.ca
http://www.physicaltherapy.ca/
References:
Bengtson KA, Brault JS. DeLisa et al: Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation: Principles and Practice . 4th ed. Philadelphia; Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2005. Ch. 36.
Burke D. Frontera: Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation . 1st ed. Philadelphia; Hanley and Belfus; 2002. Ch. 34.
Carpal tunnel syndrome. The Female Patient . 1997 Aug. 21-30.
Carpal tunnel syndrome. Postgraduate Medicine . 1995 Sept. 216.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: causes and risk factors. DynaMed website. Available at: http://dynamed102.ebscohost.com/Detail.aspx?id=113671 . Accessed January 24, 2008.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: how you can help your patient overcome the symptoms. Consultant . 1994 Feb.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: a practical review. Am Fam Physician . 1994 May 1.
Practical management of carpal tunnel syndrome. Phys Sportsmed . 1995 Jan.
Understanding and managing carpal tunnel syndrome. Journal of Musculoskeletal Medicine . 1999 Nov.
Last reviewed November 2008 by John C. Keel, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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