Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the pain, weakness, tingling, and/or numbness in the hand and/or arm which is caused by the compression of the median nerve (one of the major nerves in the hand which is housed by the passageway, carpal tunnel) at the wrist. There is usually no single cause of CTS and the contributing factors include injury, rheumatoid arthritis, metabolic disorders, work stress, repeated use of the hand with improper posture, and fluid retention. This may be prevented by hand and arm exercises, taking enough breaks, and ensuring correct posture. The treatments include wearing splints, medications to relieve pressure from the median nerve, and surgery.