Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or CTS, is a compression neuropathy -- a pinching of the median nerve within the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a bony canal within the palm side aspect of the wrist that allows for the passage of the median nerve to the hand.

Occupational pathogenesis seems to be the most frequent cause for development of the Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. There seems to be an association between repetitive work activities, both in the presence (greater risk) or absence of great force.

Studies aimed at this aspect do not give univocal results; this is understandable in view of the variables involved (different selection criteria, the job done, diagnosis criteria, etc.). A study conducted from 1983 to 1985 in Holland shows a rate of 3.4% in women and 0.6% in men; but it is estimated that CTS is present to a further 5.8% in undiagnosed women (De Krom et al. J Clin Epidemiol 1992; 45:373-6).

Usually in the absence of treatment or change in the work activity, CTS tends to worsen over the years. Clinical experience shows that the symptoms worsen in cold weather and lessen in warm weather although the severity of the disease does not change.

RSI stands for Repetitive Strain Injury. It is caused by the frequent contraction of specific muscles, to the point of causing the muscle to spasm and the fibers to shorten. The shortened muscle will now pull on both the origination and insertions points on the bone, creating pain at either, or both of those points. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition where the medial nerve being pressed at the wrist, causing pain in the wrist and numbness in the thumb and first two fingers.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the most common neuropathy and is due to the compression of the median nerve of the wrist in its passage through the carpal tunnel.

The carpal tunnel syndrome shows significant association with certain work activities. In fact, those in the manufacturing, electronics, textile, food, footwear, leather industry, as well as those involved in packaging goods, cooks, and public sector workers are at risk.

When the patient complains of tingling (paresthesias) and/or pain, often radiating to the forearm, mainly at night or early in the morning, the condition is most probably due to CTS. However, it is necessary to carry out an objective neurological test and EMG/ENG (electromyography/electroneurography) tests. The objective neurological test examines the strength, the osteotendonitic reflexes, and sensitivity, and can involve clinical tests. The most common tests are the Tinel and Phalen tests.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed based on your medical history, a physical exam, and sometimes further tests. While learning about your medical history, your health professional will want to know about health conditions you have, such as arthritis, hypothyroidism, diabetes, or pregnancy. He or she will ask about any accidents or injuries of the wrist, arm, or neck you may have had recently.

Treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome should begin as early as possible, under a doctor's direction. Underlying causes such as diabetes or arthritis should be treated first. Initial treatment generally involves resting the affected hand and wrist for at least 2 weeks, avoiding activities that may worsen symptoms, and immobilizing the wrist in a splint to avoid further damage from twisting or bending. If there is inflammation, applying cool packs can help reduce swelling.

Your legal remedy may be limited to an award under the workers' compensation laws in your state, but there can be exceptions. Whatever the specific circumstances of your case, an experienced personal injury attorney will be able to assess the facts and determine your legal rights to compensation for your injuries.

The first line of defense against carpal tunnel syndrome is to take care of your basic health—maintain a healthy weight, don't smoke, and exercise to maintain your strength and flexibility. If you have chronic conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, follow your health professional's advice for keeping your condition under control. In addition, try to keep your wrists in a neutral position during repetitive or stressful hand activities.

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when a combination of health conditions and activities puts pressure on the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in your wrist. This pressure leads to tingling, numbness, pain, and/or weakness in parts of your hand and, sometimes, up into your arm. Anything that decreases the amount of space in the carpal tunnel, increases the amount of tissue in the tunnel, or increases the sensitivity of the median nerve can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) usually begins with occasional hand and wrist numbness. Most people ignore CTS when it is in its early stages. Over time, the numbness persists and turns into pain and hand weakness. People at risk for CTS include computer operators and anyone who performs a repetitive hand motion frequently. Early detection and treatment is important. Since different people have different pain thresholds, it’s best to be screened by a trained professional.