Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Question 1

What is Carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 1

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a collection of symptoms and signs caused by compression of the median nerve in the carpal tunnel.

Question 2

What are the signs and symptoms of Carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 2

numbness of hand(s)
night-time worsening
numbness in median nerve distribution
symptoms are intermittent
onset is gradual
weakness of hand
clumsiness
Aching or pain in one arm
thenar weakness
normal reflexes

Question 3

What are the risk factors of Carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 3

age over 30 years
high BMI
female sex
alterations in carpal tunnel space
fractured wrist/carpal bones
square wrist
rheumatoid arthritis
diabetes
dialysis
pregnancy
congenital carpal tunnel stenosis
occupation involving exposure to repetitive bending, twisting, or vibration of the hands or wrists
mobility aids

Question 4

What is the epidemiology of Carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 4

The incidence in the US is reported as 3.5 cases per 1000 person-years, and the prevalence is approximately 10 times the incidence rate, at 3.7%

Question 5

What investigations would you do for Carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer 5

> EMG- focal slowing of conduction in median sensory nerves/ prolongation of median distal motor latency/ lower amplitude