Archive for October 20th, 2009
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that exerts pressure on the median nerve (a sensory nerve) at the wrist. The median nerve extends from the arm into the hand and gives you feeling in your thumb, index, middle and ring fingers. The name derives from the carpal bones that make up the wrist joint. The “carpal tunnel” is a narrow passageway where the nerve travels into the hand. It is composed of a combination of ligaments and bones.
When the soft tissue around the carpal tunnel becomes swollen or inflamed, it presses on the nerve in the tunnel and causes pain and numbness. Treatment usually includes rest, ice and immobilization in a wrist brace. If the cause of the disorder is due to a medical condition, then your doctor will determine the treatment(s) for those conditions in an attempt to reduce the symptoms.