Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the wrist resulting in numbness, tingling, and weakness. This nerve provides sensation to the thumb, index and middle fingers, and half of the ring finger.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway present in the palm side of the wrist, protecting the median nerve to the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome is seen more commonly in women than men.

Risk factors include hand actions that are repeated or involve the wrist being bent for a long period, flexed or faced with impact. Pregnancy, diabetes and arthritis are also a few of the factors.

What are the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

• Pain or numbness in the palm and fingers (in one or both hands)
• Weakness in the wrist and fingers
• Difficulty making a fist or dropping things easily
• Waking up from the pain and discomfort
• Pain extending up the arm

How is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome diagnosed?

In addition to a run-through of medical history and examination of the neck, arms, wrists, and hands, tests of strength, sensation, and signs of nerve irritation or damage may be conducted.

Reviewed by Dr. Chew Yoon Chong Winston, Consultant, Hand and Orthopedic Surgeon, BJIOS Orthopaedics