Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Most cases of CTS are of unknown causes (idiopathic). Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can be associated with any condition that causes pressure on the median nerve at the wrist which include obesity, oral contraceptives, hypothyroidism, arthritis, diabetes and trauma. Occupational risk factors of repetitive tasks (continuous use of computer), force, posture, and vibration have been cited.

- Dr Arun Oommen

A 42 year old lady is suffering from re-current numbness and tingling of the middle, index and thumb of the right hand. It gets aggravated especially when using computers for long periods. Medicines gave only temporary relief. Recently, doctors advised surgery to relieve the problem. How useful is surgery?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common problem faced. The carpal tunnel is an anatomical compartment located at the base of the palm. Tendons and a nerve called the median nerve pass through the carpal. The median nerve provides feeling or sensation to the thumb, index finger, long finger, and half of the ring finger. The median nerve can be compressed by a decrease in the size of the canal, an increase in the size of the contents (such as the swelling of lubrication tissue around the flexor tendons), or both.