Final answer:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition characterized by pain, numbness, and tingling in the fingers, caused by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel of the wrist.
Step-by-step explanation:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes pressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel—a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones at the base of the hand—houses the median nerve and the tendons that bend the fingers. If irritated or swollen, these tendons can crowd the nerve, causing CTS.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- The syndrome's hallmark symptoms include pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Some people may also experience discomfort in the wrist and arm. Over time, individuals might notice muscle weakness in their hands and loss of grip strength.
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Treatment can include non-surgical options like wrist splints, especially at night, and the use of corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. When non-surgical treatments are inadequate, surgery might be advised. Surgical treatment typically involves cutting the carpal ligament to relieve pressure on the median nerve.