Carpal tunnel syndrome CTS

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition caused by compression of one of the nerves in the wrist. When a nerve in the wrist becomes pinched, this can lead to significant discomfort. People commonly experience tingling, weakness, reduced grip strength or numbness in the hand and fingers.

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist through which several structures pass: nerves, blood vessels and the flexor tendons of the forearm. When the pressure inside this tunnel increases, these structures located within the wrist can become compressed.

In carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve becomes pinched. This nerve travels down from the arm, through the wrist, into the hand and fingers. Increased pressure on this nerve leads to the characteristic symptoms of CTS.