Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CPS)

Condition:

The transverse carpal ligament is a fibrous sheath at the wrist. Passing under this sheath are the median nerve and tendons of various forearm muscles (wrist flexors). Overuse of these muscles can result in narrowing of the carpal tunnel space, placing pressure on the median nerve. This is known as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms:

Patients may experience pain, numbness, burning, and/or tingling in the thumb and first three digits. In addition, patients may experience thumb weakness and atrophy.

Treatment:

Nerve glide exercises, splinting, ultrasound, and acupuncture can alleviate symptoms and normalize the carpal tunnel space. These treatments are combined with education on activity modifications to avoid continued aggravation.