Final answer:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is inflammation of the median nerve in the wrist, caused by its compression between carpal bones. Symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb and first two fingers of the hand.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is inflammation of the median nerve in the wrist. It occurs when the median nerve becomes compressed between carpal bones, which form the walls and floor of the carpal tunnel. This compression can result from repetitive use of the wrist, a wrist injury, or other factors like tumors. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb and first two fingers of the hand.