Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a cumulative trauma disorder and is the result of compression on the median nerve. This compression causes loss of sensation, numbness and tingling, weakness, and pain. These symptoms occur in the first three digits of the hand. This pain is usually present with a repetitive activity such as typing and other activities that require fine manipulation with the fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome is often seen in computer operators, hair stylists, and garment workers.
The roof of the carpal tunnel is formed by the flexor retinaculum of the wrist. The carpal bones themselves form the carpal tunnel floor. The area between is termed the carpal tunnel. Through this tunnel passes the median nerve, a number of blood vessels and muscle tendons. Repetitive trauma will cause inflammation the produce swelling. This swelling, if chronic, will lead to compression on the median nerve. The compression, in turn, causes the numbness, tingling, and pain seen in carpal tunnel. The symptoms are seen in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and lateral aspect of the ring finger. These digits are affected because the median nerve innervates these areas.