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click for more images ![]() The median nerve travels under the transverse carpal ligament. The nerver is pinched in carpal tunnel syndrome. Image © Medical Multimedia Group Carpal Tunnel Syndrome TreatmentCortisone InjectionsAnti-inflammatory MedicationsFind A Doctor Suggested ReadingOther ResourcesRelated SitesCarpal Tunnel SyndromeAbout.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when a nerve is pinched in the wrist. This nerve, called the median nerve, is the connection from the brain and spinal cord, down to the finger tips. In patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve is pinched as it passes through the wrist. Because of the compression, the nerve does not function properly.
How does the median nerve normally work? The median nerve travels from branches off the spinal cord, down the arm, and into the wrist and hand. In the wrist, the median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel. Carpal comes from the Greek word for 'wrist'-that's what gives the tunnel its name. The carpal tunnel is actually made up of the wrist bones on the bottom, and a tight ligament on the top. The ligament that makes up the top of the carpal tunnel is not flexible, nor are the wrist bones. Coursing through the carpal tunnel is the median nerve, as well as tendons that attach to your fingers.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome? When carpal tunnel syndrome occurs, the median nerve is pinched, and the normal functions (as described above) are impaired. Problems that can occur in carpal tunnel syndrome include:
Updated: January 6, 2008 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome TreatmentCortisone InjectionsAnti-inflammatory MedicationsFind A Doctor Suggested ReadingOther Resources |
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