Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that affects the hand and arm, characterised by numbness, tingling, and other symptoms.

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist, surrounded by bones and ligaments. The median nerve, which controls sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers, runs through this tunnel.

CTS occurs when the tunnel becomes narrowed or when tissues surrounding the flexor tendons swell, putting pressure on the median nerve. This pressure can lead to numbness and pain in the palm and fingers, particularly in the thumb, index, and middle fingers.

CTS arises from a combination of factors that increase pressure on the median nerve and tendons in the carpal tunnel.

• Workplace Factors: Repetitive use of vibrating hand tools or work that requires prolonged or repeated flexing of the wrist can create harmful pressure on the median nerve.
• Anatomical Factors: A wrist fracture, dislocation, or arthritis can deform the small bones in the wrist, altering the space within the carpal tunnel and exerting pressure on the median nerve.
• Gender: CTS is more common in women, possibly due to the carpal tunnel being smaller in women than men.
• Inflammatory Conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can lead to inflammation in the wrist and put pressure on the median nerve.
• Obesity: Being overweight is a risk factor for CTS.
• Fluid Retention: Fluid retention can occur during pregnancy or menopause. It can increase pressure within the carpal tunnel, irritating the median nerve.
• Other Medical Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and renal failure are associated with an increased risk of CTS.
• Genetic Predisposition: There might be a genetic link, as CTS is often found in families with a history of the condition.