Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) involves pain, weakness or numbness caused by compression of a nerve in the wrist. It is the most common nerve entrapment disorder, affecting up to 10 percent of the population, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. CTS is more common in women than men. Symptoms tend to affect the dominant hand, but both hands are involved in more than half of patients. 

CTS affects the wrist’s carpal tunnel, a passage containing the median nerve (which controls sensation and movement in some of the fingers) and the flexor tendons, which bend the fingers.

Usually, CTS begins slowly, with a slight aching of the wrist that extends to the hand or forearm. Other common signs and symptoms include tingling, numbness or weakness of the fingers and/or hand. In the beginning, symptoms usually occur at night or after repetitive movements of the wrist or hand.

In most cases the cause of CTS is unknown. However, risk factors include genetics, injury or trauma to the hand or wrist, repetitive movement of the hand, wrist or fingers, and having a narrow carpal tunnel. Conditions such as pregnancy and menopause in addition to certain chronic illnesses (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) may also contribute to CTS.

Treatment of CTS should begin as soon as possible to prevent worsening of symptoms and permanent damage to the median nerve. If CTS is caused by an underlying condition, physicians will typically treat the condition first. Other treatment methods include resting the affected hand and wrist, wearing a splint and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In severe cases, carpal tunnel release surgery may be necessary.

Using good posture and ergonomics, such as positioning the wrists properly when typing, may reduce the risk of CTS. The best line of defense against illness, including CTS, is to maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking cigarettes (which may aggravate symptoms and slow recovery) and exercise to maintain strength and flexibility. In addition, patients can take several precautions to protect their hands, including reducing force and relaxing hand grip and taking frequent breaks to stretch the hand and wrist.