Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a compression of the median nerve as it passes the wrist.

The median is one of the three primary nerves in the wrist. At the wrist, the nerve passes under a ligament, known as the transverse carpal ligament, which forms the roof of the carpal tunnel.

Causes  |  Symptoms  |  Treatment Options

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The space in the tunnel may be reduced for various reasons, including the position of the wrist. Hence it can be common in people who spend a lot of time typing on the computer. This is why it is important to ensure a proper computer and keyboard set up to allow your wrists the optimal angle.

What are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

The main symptom of this condition is numbness or pins and needles in the following fingers – thumb, index, middle, and the half of the ring finger adjacent to the middle finger.

Patients may even experience a loss of sensation and sometimes weakness in the fingers when performing a pinch or tripod grip in severe cases.

What Are The Treatment Options Available For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Mild cases can be treated with physiotherapy, steroid injections, or ergonomic modifications, such as the adjustment of one’s computer and workstation set up, as mentioned above. 

Surgery is usually necessary in moderate to severe cases to prevent permanent damage to the median nerve.