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Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common orthopaedic conditions. Carpal tunnel syndrome is a set of symptoms which occur from pressure on the median nerve as it enters the wrist. Pressure on this nerve gives a constellation of complaints:

• Numbness in the thumb, index, and long fingers
• Pain in the thumb, index, and long fingers
• Fumbling of objects or loss of dexterity after activity
• Night pain
• Pain radiating up the forearm

Carpal tunnel is sometimes associated with repetitive activities of the hand or activities which require constant hand motion. It is a very common condition in an industrialized society.

The treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome can be both non-surgical and surgical. The use of splints prescribed by your physician, anti-inflammatory medications, and occasionally injections can relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel in many people. Many people, however, will require surgery to relieve their carpal tunnel syndrome.

The surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome is very common and relatively safe. It is an operation to release the pressure created on the median nerve by a tight band of fascia - the deep transverse carpal ligament. The results of carpal tunnel surgery are usually very good.

If you have numbness, tingling or pain in your hand - especially in the thumb, index, and long fingers - consult your physician for an evaluation. Early diagnosis frequently allows non-surgical treatment.