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Carpal tunnel syndrome

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) results from compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel and is characterised by painful paraesthesiae of the hand, wrist, or forearm.

  • described as a mononeuropathy or radiculopathy, it is caused by tight packing of tendons and the median nerve in the carpal tunnel such that any swelling is likely to cause ischaemia and compression of the nerve
    • syndrome is characterized by pain in the hand, numbness, and tingling in the distribution of the median nerve
    • sensations may be felt in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the radial side of the ring finger
    • painful feelings may result in a reduction in grip strength and hand function
  • most commonly diagnosed compression neuropathy of the upper limb (1,2)
  • pathophysiology of CTS involves a combination of mechanical trauma, increased pressure, and ischaemic damage to the median nerve within the carpal tunnel (3)
  • more common in females than in males
  • peak age ranges from 40 to 60 years
  • risk factors for CTS include obesity, monotonous wrist activity, pregnancy, genetic heredity, and rheumatoid inflammation (3)
  • diagnosis of CTS is conducted through medical assessments and electrophysiological testing

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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