Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression and irritation of the median nerve as it passes through a small anatomical "tunnel" within the wrist. The median nerve supplies the thumb, index, middle, and inside half of the ring finger. Another nerve supplies the outside half of the ring finger and the little finger. Compression of the median nerve effects the function of the hand, and can cause a range of symptoms including:
- pain at the wrist, hand and forearm
- numbness and tingling in the thumb, index finger and ring finger
- thumb weakness
There are many factors that can increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome. Women are more likely to be effected than men, with the most common age group being 40-60. Other potential causes or risk factors may include:
- repetitive manual tasks
- previous wrist injury
- fluid retention from pregnancy or menopause
- arthritis of the hand and wrist
- diabetes
- thyroid disease
In most cases carpal tunnel syndrome can be diagnosed by your Doctor or Physiotherapist with clinical tests. Ultrasound or nerve conduction studies may provide further diagnostic information when required. Thorough assessment and severity of symptoms will guide the best course of treatment and rehabilitation.
Treatment options may include:
- splinting
- manual therapy
- specific advice to guide rest from aggravating factors
- nerve gliding exercises
- corticosteroid injections
- decompression surgery
