Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The carpal tunnel located in the wrist. It is a structure that contains the median nerve and tendons that are associated with the tendons of the fingers and hand. When the carpal tunnel is too small or if there is inflammation of the structures, the median nerve becomes compressed which results in symptoms of numbness, tingling in the wrist, palm, and first 3 ½ digits. Symptoms are usually worse during the night or the morning. If severe weakness of the hand can occur as well as atrophy of musculature that the median nerve feeds. Nonsurgical treatments include but not limited to bracing/splinting, rest, ice, medication, and injections. Severe cases may require surgical carpal tunnel release.