Hands - FAQs

Questions About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the median nerve is compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, a narrow confined space. Since the median nerve provides sensory and motor functions to the thumb and three middle fingers, many symptoms may result.

What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?

Most cases of carpal tunnel syndrome have no specific cause, although any/all of the following may serve as a contributing factor:

• frequent, repetitive, small movements with the hands (such as with typing or using a keyboard)
• frequent, repetitive, grasping movements with the hands (such as with sports and certain physical activities)
• joint or bone disease (i.e., arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)
• hormonal or metabolic changes (i.e., menopause, pregnancy, thyroid imbalance)
• changes in blood-sugar levels (may be seen with type 2 diabetes)
• other conditions or injuries of the wrist (i.e., strain, sprain, dislocation, break, or swelling and inflammation)

What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

The following are the most common symptoms for carpal tunnel syndrome. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

• difficulty making a fist
• difficulty gripping objects with the hand(s)
• pain and/or numbness in the hand(s)
• "pins and needles" feeling in the fingers
• swollen feeling in the fingers
• burning or tingling in the fingers, especially the thumb and the index and middle fingers

The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may resemble other medical conditions or problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.

How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, three medical associations agree that electrodiagnostic tests are the most accurate tool for diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome. The American Academy of Neurology, the American Association of Electrodiagnostic Medicine, and the American Academy of Physical Medicine endorse a guideline that states that electrodiagnostic tests provide accurate diagnosis. Electrodiagnostic tests involve the stimulation of muscles and nerves in the hand.