Carpal tunnel syndrome is an illness of the hand and wrist that progresses over time. This painful condition is caused by a compression of the median nerve. As the median nerve is squeezed, less blood and nutrients flow to it, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the fingers and thumb.
Women are three times more likely than men to develop carpal tunnel syndrome. Those who perform assembly line work are especially at risk. The condition is typically treated either conservatively, with medications, rest, and splinting, or with surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid permanent damage.
(Click Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for the full eMedTV article, which provides more information on the anatomy of the carpal tunnel, symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, and the occupations that can put a person at risk of developing it. You can also click any of the links in the box to the right for specific information.)
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