Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Question 1

What is carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 1

Most common peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome 
Median nerve compressed in carpal tunnel
1 in 10 people 
\+Female, +increasing age
Severity of symptoms can vary 
Surgery may be needed

Question 2

What causes Carpal Tunnel syndrome?

Answer 2

Compression of the median nerve:
Oedema
Tendon inflamation
Hormonal changes
Manual activity

Question 3

What are risk factors of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Answer 3

Diabetes
Menopause
Hypothyroidism
Obesity 
Arthritis 
Pregnancy

Question 4

What is the clinical presentation of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 4

Intermitten nocturnal paraesthesia - increases in frequency to waking hours
Loss of sensation
Weakness of median nerve stimulated muscles and their atrophy
Pain
Difficulty with fine motor tasks - progression
Tenilsine Test - tapping of the wrist - shooting pain and paraesthesia = success

Question 5

How can carpal tunnel syndrome be managed?

Answer 5

Education - lifestyle modification
Load management 
Night time splinting
Exercise 
Corticosteroid injections
Surgery