Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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A doctor examines the wrist of a patient experiencing hand pain.

The carpal tunnel is a space in the wrist where a nerve and nine tendons pass from the forearm into the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a type of hand nerve entrapment that occurs when swelling in the tunnel compresses the median nerve.

Carpal Tunnel

During repetitive hand motions, like typing, the tendons in the carpal tunnel become irritated - causing swelling and inflammation.

Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome

As a result of the pressure on the median nerve, patients with carpal tunnel syndrome may experience symptoms including:

Hand pain and finger pain, including burning, tingling, and numbness
Hand pain or wrist pain, extending to the elbow
Sensation that the hand is swollen, even if it is not
Weakened grip and difficulty picking up small items
Problems with fine finger movements in one or both hands
Numbness in hands

This condition is common in people who perform repetitive wrist and hand motions, such as typing on a computer keyboard. It also affects those who grip tightly or uses their wrists consistently, such as cashiers, cyclists, meat cutters, and musicians.

Treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome

Many nonsurgical courses of treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome are available, such as

Splints or braces to immobilize and rest the wrist
Adjustments to how you perform daily activities
Oral anti-inflammatory medications
Steroid injections

If nonsurgical treatment is not successful in resolving your hand pain or treatment is sought too late, surgery may be required. This surgery involves enlarging the carpal tunnel, which will relieve the swelling and pressure on the nerve.

Learn More About MedStar Health's Approach to Minimally Invasive Nerve Surgery

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