Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a common nerve condition that occurs when the median nerve is compressed in the wrist. The median nerve runs from the forearm through the carpal tunnel, an opening in the wrist, and into the palm of the hand. It provides feeling and motor functions to the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger.
Symptoms
Symptoms of CTS usually start slowly and can include:
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers, especially the thumb and index and middle fingers
- Fingers that feel swollen and cold
- Weakness when gripping objects
- Pain or numbness in one or both hands
- “Pins and needles” feeling in the fingers
- Waking up and feeling the need to shake out your hand or wrist
