Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Guide for Anatomy and Physiology Learners

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that affects the wrist and hand, often caused by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel—a narrow passage in the wrist. The median nerve plays a crucial role, controlling some of the muscles that move the thumb and transmitting sensory information from the thumb, index, and middle fingers back to the brain.

This condition can lead to discomfort, including pain, tingling, numbness, or an aching sensation in the affected hand. Women are more likely to develop carpal tunnel syndrome than men, but it can affect people of all ages. A well-known risk factor is repetitive activities like typing, though it's important to distinguish carpal tunnel syndrome from repetitive strain injury (RSI). RSI involves damage to nerves, muscles, and tendons, whereas carpal tunnel syndrome specifically involves the median nerve.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

One hallmark of carpal tunnel syndrome is a gradual onset of pain, tingling, or numbness in one or both hands. These symptoms tend to affect the thumb, index, and middle fingers, though it may feel like your entire hand is involved. You may also experience an ache in the forearm.

Symptoms are often worse at night, disrupting sleep. People with carpal tunnel syndrome commonly find relief by hanging their hand out of bed or shaking it to reduce the tingling and pain.

Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments available for carpal tunnel syndrome. The choice of treatment often depends on the severity of nerve compression and whether the muscles in the hand have been weakened. Below, we explore the main options:

Non-Surgical Treatments

Wrist Splints

A resting splint worn at night can reduce symptoms, particularly for those with nighttime discomfort.

A working splint can be helpful for individuals whose symptoms are triggered by specific activities. This type of splint holds the wrist slightly extended (bent back) to relieve pressure on the nerve.

Occupational therapists or physiotherapists can guide you in choosing and using the right splint for your needs. They may also recommend specific exercises to prevent the median nerve from adhering to nearby tendons, which can ease symptoms further.

Steroid Injections
A steroid injection into the carpal tunnel can temporarily reduce swelling and provide relief. While the effects may not be permanent, this treatment is often effective for managing symptoms in the short term.

Surgical Options

If symptoms are severe or persistent—particularly if there is significant nerve compression or weakness in the hand—surgery may be necessary. The goal of surgery is to relieve pressure on the median nerve by cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel.

Surgery is typically a day-case procedure, meaning you can go home the same day.

Recovery generally takes less than a month, and the operation is performed under local anesthetic, leaving only a small scar.

Final Thoughts for Trainees

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that anatomy and physiology students are likely to encounter in their studies or clinical practice. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for providing effective care. From simple splinting to surgery, the right intervention can make a significant difference in a patient’s quality of life.

Whether you’re learning about the intricate anatomy of the wrist or studying treatment strategies, this knowledge is vital for aspiring therapists aiming to support patients in managing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

View all messages