Overview

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition that affects millions of people each year. The carpal tunnel is an inch-wide, narrow passageway in the wrist. The base and sides of the tunnel are formed by small wrist bones called carpal bones. The top of the tunnel is a strong band of connective tissue called the transverse carpal ligament.

When the carpal tunnel becomes narrowed or when tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell, they put pressure on the median nerve. This condition is known as carpal tunnel syndrome. Any abnormal pressure on the nerve can result in pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.

There are several possible causes of the condition including heredity, hand and wrist position, pregnancy, and certain health conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. One commonly known causes repetitive hand use where the same motion is conducted over and over again. An example is typing on a computer at a desk that is not set up properly.

The painful symptoms come and go at first and may seem more severe at night when the hand and wrist are at a resting state. For severe cases, carpal tunnel injections may be necessary to relieve pain, and sometimes surgery is necessary.

Learn more in the video below. Contact our office for an appointment.