Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when there is increased pressure on the median nerve at the wrist in the carpal tunnel. Symptoms include tingling, numbness, pain, and weakness in the distribution of the median nerve, which supplies sensation to the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring fingers. The median nerve also supplies motor innervation to a muscle in the thumb.

Symptoms get worse when there is increased pressure in the carpal tunnel; this usually occurs when the wrist is flexed or extended for prolonged periods of time. There are both conservative and surgical options for the treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.