Highlights:

Overview:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a disorder marked by weakness and pain in the hand and wrist. CTS occurs in the nerves of the hands -- not the muscles, as some people believe.
• It is not completely known how the process leading to carpal tunnel syndrome actually evolves, and how nerve conduction (the passing of the nerve signal) through the wrist changes.
• In general, carpal tunnel syndrome develops when the tissues around the median nerve swell and press on the nerve.
• Early in the disorder, the process is reversible. Over time, however, the insulation on the nerves may wear away, and permanent nerve damage may develop.

Risk Factors:

• CTS is associated with a family history of the disorder.
• Many studies indicate that women have a significantly higher risk for carpal tunnel syndrome than men do.
• Older people are at higher risk than younger adults.
• Workers who use their hands and wrists repetitively are at risk for CTS

New Statistics:

According to a 2007 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, carpal tunnel syndrome was associated with the second longest average time away from work (28 days) among the major disabling diseases and illnesses in all private industries.

Treatment:

• It is critical to begin treating early phases of carpal tunnel syndrome before the damage progresses.
• A conservative approach to CTS, which may include corticosteroid injections and splinting, is the first step in treating this disorder.
• Surgery for CTS is among the most common hand surgeries.
• In various trials, 70 - 90% of patients who underwent surgery were free of nighttime pain afterward.