Carpal tunnel syndrome, which is caused by compression of the median nerve, can cause intense pain, numbness, and weakness in the fingers, thumb, and wrist. The median nerve passes from the forearm into the hand, and it is responsible for controlling some of your hand muscles and allowing you to feel sensations with your hand.
The condition typically progresses over time, and as the median nerve is squeezed, less blood and nutrients flow through it. Treatment options include both non-surgical and surgical methods. Surgery involves cutting the band of tissue around the wrist to reduce pressure on the median nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome primarily affects adults, and women are three times more likely than men to develop it.
There are many factors that increase your risk of developing this syndrome, including wrist sprains, certain medical conditions (such as lupus), and obesity.
(Click Carpal Tunnel Syndrome to learn more, including how the hand's anatomy can enable carpal tunnel syndrome to develop. You can also click on any of the links in the box to the right for more specific information.)
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