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Carpal tunnel syndrome

In carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve is compressed at the wrist. This mainly causes tingling, numbness or pain in the thumb, index finger, middle finger and part of the ring finger, often at night.

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  • Carpal tunnel syndrome, often called CTS, results from pressure on the median nerve at the wrist.
  • Tingling, numbness or pain usually affects the thumb, index finger, middle finger and thumb side of the ring finger.
  • Symptoms are often strongest at night. Shaking the hand may give brief relief.
  • The little finger is usually outside this pattern. Symptoms in the little finger, neck pain or pain coming from the elbow may suggest another trapped nerve.
  • Pregnancy, diabetes, rheumatic conditions, thyroid problems and a previous wrist fracture may increase risk, but often there is no single clear cause.
  • A night splint may reduce mild or temporary symptoms. Clear loss of nerve function needs earlier investigation.
  • An injection may help temporarily; surgery widens the tunnel and is mainly intended for persistent, severe or nerve-damaging symptoms.

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Further reading

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Meralgia paraestheticaMeralgia paraesthetica is irritation or compression of a sensory nerve supplying the outer thigh. It causes burning, tingling or a numb area, but should not cause muscle weakness.
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