Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a relatively common condition that causes pain, numbness and a burning or tingling sensation in your hand and fingers. Symptoms of CTS can range from mild to severe.

The carpal tunnel

The carpal tunnel is a small tunnel that runs from the bottom of your wrist to your lower palm.

Several tendons that help to move your fingers pass through the carpal tunnel. The median nerve also passes through the tunnel, which controls sensation and movement of your hand.

The nerve and tendons are protected by a ridge of bone and ligaments. In cases of CTS, the space inside the tunnel shrinks, placing pressure on the median nerve. Compression of the nerve results in symptoms of pain and numbness.

How common is CTS?

CTS is one of the most common conditions affecting the nerves of the hand. It is estimated that almost 5% of women and 3% of men have CTS. Most cases of CTS develop in people who are between 45-64 years of age.

CTS is also common in pregnant women. This may be due to the fluid retention that often occurs during pregnancy placing additional pressure on the carpal tunnel.

Outlook

The likely prognosis of CTS seems to depend on the severity of symptoms.

People with mild to moderate symptoms usually respond well to non-surgical treatment, such as wrist splints and corticosteroids injections. However, more severe cases usually require surgery to reduce the pressure on the median nerve.

Cases of CTS that occur during pregnancy usually resolve after the birth.

Left untreated, CTS may lead to permanent nerve damage.

Glossary

Numbness

Numbness refers to a lack of sensation in a part of the body.

Pain

Pain is an unpleasant physical or emotional feeling that your body produces as a warning sign that it has been damaged.

Swelling

Inflammation is the body's response to infection, irritation or injury, which causes redness, swelling, pain and sometimes a feeling of heat in the affected area.