| Updated: 4/11/2007 4:49 pm |
Published: 4/11/2007 4:49 pm |
Carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS (C-T-S), is a common problem that affects the hand and wrist, which may be linked to job tasks that require repetitive use of the hands, such as typing. However people can develop CTS regardless of the type of work they do. Conditions such as arthritis or a wrist fracture can cause CTS, as well.CTS results when the median nerve, which runs into the hand to supply sensation to your thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of your ring finger, becomes irritated. Usually, this occurs because there's too much pressure on the nerve as it runs into your wrist through an opening called the carpal tunnel. One of the first symptoms of CTS is numbness along the median nerve, which is quickly followed by pain in the same area. The pain may radiate up your arm to your shoulder and sometimes your neck. If the condition is allowed to progress, weakness of your thumb muscles can occur, which results in an inability to bring your thumb into opposition with your other fingers and hinders your grasp. If you suffer from any of these symptoms, consult a physician.
