Carpal tunnel syndrome

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Compression of the median nerve as it passes through the wrist.

It appears when the passage of nerves and tendons through the tunnel located at the base of the hand is narrower than normal.

Its manifestations are cramps as well as a feeling of heat and numbness in the first three fingers and the palm of the hand. These occur mainly at night or with activity.

Diagnosis is achieved through collecting the patient's clinical history and a physical examination, being later confirmed by an electromyogram.

If known, the cause must be eliminated to achieve a good progression together with orthopaedic and anti-inflammatory treatment. In some cases surgical treatment may be required.

Bibliographic references
  1. Milind J Kothari. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Clinical manifestations and diagnosis. UpToDate. Septiembre 2016
  2. Milind J Kothari. Carpal tunnel syndrome: Treatment and prognosis. UpToDate. Noviembre 2015
  3. Alice A Hunter. Surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome. UpToDate. Septiembre 2015
  4. Panchal. The Clinical Application of Kaplan's Cardinal Line as a Surface Marker for the Superficial Palmar Arch. Hand 2009;
  5. Zhang X. Carpal tunnel release with subneural reconstruction of the transverse carpal ligament compared with isolated open and endoscopic release. Bone Joint J 2015; 97-B:221.
  6. John J. Cush. Valoración de los trastornos articulares y musculoesqueléticos. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19ª Edición. 2220:2221.
Author
Dr. Patricia Sánchez
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Difficulty manipulating small objects


    Wake up with tips of fingers/toes numb


    Cramps in thumb, middle and/or index fingers


    Cramps in the palm of the hand


    Tingling in the hand

Symptoms to watch out for

Hand deformity
Loss of sensitivity and/or motility in limbs

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Apply warm compresses 3 to 4 times a day for 10 to 15 minutes.
Use a wrist or elbow splint.
Avoid wrist movements.