Carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS, is a condition in the wrist caused by the compression of the median nerve. This compression can make parts of the hand numb, tingle, or have occasional pain. CTS is a very common problem. More and more cases are from trauma caused by repetitious movements, especially computer use. While CTS can often be successfully treated non-operatively, surgery may be necessary in some cases.

What is the carpal tunnel?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow channel on the palm side of the wrist. Eight bones, called carpals, form an arch creating three rigid walls of the channel. A tight, broad band of tissue, called the transverse carpal ligament, covers the arch and forms a roof over the channel. This "tunnel" is the protective passage for the median nerve and all nine tendons that bend the fingers and thumb.

A nerve has two functions:

• to relay information about sensations (like touch, temperature, and pain).
• to control muscles.

• infections or growths within the tunnel that take up space and compress the median nerve.
• osteoarthritis, or other problems with the carpals (wrist bones).
• diseases which cause inflammation or fluid build-up like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism.
• pregnancy: hormonal changes may cause fluid retention, which can increase pressure on the median nerve. This condition usually improves after pregnancy.