lecture 9 - carpal tunnel syndrome Flashcards
What sex has the highest prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Females
What is the main sensory nerve of the hand?
Median nerve
What ligament in the wrist does the median nerve pass under?
Transverse carpal ligament
What are the components of the carpal tunnel?
Carpals form u shape with transverse carpal ligament over the top, containing tendons and median nerve
What is the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Swelling of the carpal tunnel leading to compression of the median nerve
What are some of the possible clinical causes of carpal tunnel syndrome?
tenosynovitis, RA, hypothyroidism, diabetes, pregnancy, acromegaly, colles fracture, dislocated lunate bone, repetitive use of hands
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
tingling, pain, numbness, weakness, stiffness, difficulty gripping/grasping
What are the signs of carpal tunnel syndrome?
dry skin, wasting thenar eminence, lack of sweat, decreased power in finger movements
What are the 2 provocative tests for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Phalen’s test, Tinel’s test
What is Phalen’s test for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Wrist flexion to maximum for 60 sec and assess for pain/symptoms
What is Tinel’s test for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Tapping over transverse carpal ligament and assessing for pain/symptoms
What electrodiagnostic tests can identify carpal tunnel syndrome?
nerve conduction studies, EMG
What are the treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Rest, splint, NSAIDS, steroid injection, surgical release
What are the complications of surgical release to treat carpal tunnel syndrome?
Permanent weakness, accidental division of nerves, painful scar, chronic pain syndrome
