Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition where a nerve (median nerve) is irritated and sometimes compressed where it passes through a short tunnel at the wrist. The tunnel also contains the tendons that bend the fingers and thumb.
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The main symptom is altered feeling in the hand, affecting the thumb, index, middle and ring fingers; it is unusual for the little finger to be involved. People often describe it as a tingling sensation. CTS may be associated with pain in the wrist and forearm. It can also make the muscles feel weaker.
Seek attention from a healthcare professional for assessment if:
- You have noticed severe weakness and especially if it is getting worse
CTS commonly affects women in middle age but can occur at any age in either gender. CTS can occur with pregnancy, diabetes, thyroid problems, rheumatoid arthritis and other less common conditions, but most sufferers have none of these. CTS occurring in pregnancy often resolves after the baby is born.