Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is becoming more frequently recognized and may be occurring more often. It may result from repetitive motion or the use of devices like computer keyboards. It affects the median nerve, the nerve that supplies feeling and movement to the thumb and "thumb-side" of the hand.

Surface Anatomy - Normal Wrist

This picture shows a normal flexed hand. The tendons that move the fingers and are associated with carpal tunnel syndrome are visible just below the wrist.

Compression of the Median Nerve

A diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome may follow testing the affected hand for numbness, tingling, weakness and/or pain in specific areas. Muscle and nerve conduction tests may also help affirm or rule out carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal Tunnel Surgical Procedure

In treating carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery may be required to release the compressed median nerve. The open release procedure involves simply cutting the transverse carpal ligament.