What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
If you work in front of a computer or behind the wheel of a car, you've probably heard of carpal tunnel syndrome. Find out why carpal tunnel syndrome occurs, and what symptoms to expect.
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Transcript: What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
What is the Carpal Tunnel?
The carpal tunnel is a tight, narrow, C-shaped passageway in the wrist that is made up of tiny bones and ligaments.How the Carpal Tunnel Works
Some of the tendons and nerves that control movement of the fingers pass through the carpal tunnel into the hand. These tendons are covered with a fluid-filled sheath that helps them glide smoothly during movement. During repetitive hand motions, like typing, the tendons become irritated, causing swelling and inflammation within the sheath.Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Because the carpal tunnel is made of bones and ligaments, it cannot expand to accommodate the swelling; this causes the nerves of the hand to become pinched or compressed, resulting in pain or numbness in the fingers.Copyrighted animations provided by Blausen Medical.