What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) results from increased pressure on the
median nerve located in the anatomic passageway of the wrist known as
the carpal tunnel. CTS is considered a repetitive motion disorder seen
most often in the working population, especially in those individuals using computer keyboards.

Compression of the median nerve by the transverse carpal ligament sets
into motion a progressively crippling disorder which eventually results in
wrist pain, numbness and tingling in the hand, pain consisting of a feeling
of "pins and needless", weakness of grip and problems with hand and
finger coordination.

CTS is seen more often in women than men, by a ratio of 3 to 1, usually
between the ages of 30 and 50 years. The Bureau of Labor statistics, U.S. Department of Labor states that CTS sufferers miss more days from work
than any other work related condition. On the average, 30 days absence per worker. The current statistics translate to a growing epidemic which is
costing business billions of dollars a year in lost worker days and medical
costs.

The symptoms of CTS are caused by decreased conductivity of the median nerve which is due to increased mechanical pressure within the carpal
tunnel. Interference in nutritional blood supply is also a contributive factor. Treatment should focus on reduction of inflammation, improvement in nerve conductivity and increased circulation to facilitate rapid healing. Historically,
only a few treatment options have been available to CTS patients, strong oral medication and injections, wrist splints and surgery.

What are the symptoms of CTS?

Compression of the nerve causes a reduction in the conductivity of the
median nerve. This leads to wrist pain, numbness and tingling in the hand,
pain consisting of a feeling of "pins and needles", weakness of grip, and problems with hand and finger coordination. The pain sensations may
radiate to the forearm and shoulder. Symptoms may be occasional or
constant. The tingling is often referred to as a feeling similar to the "pins
and needles" sensation associated with a limb "falling asleep". CTS pain
can range from mild numbness and faint tingling to excruciating pain accompanied by a crippling atrophy of the muscles of the thumb.

Who suffers from CTS?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is found most often in those who perform
repetitive motions with their hands, such as computer operators, production
line workers, drivers, bookkeepers and grocery store checkers. It is especially commonplace among users of word processors, or the computer keyboard.