DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

Back to Globe
Orthopedic Condition

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

LOW SEVERITY

A common condition causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm due to compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist. Most common nerve entrapment syndrome. Often work-related.

Global Affected

10.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Numbness/tingling in thumb, index, middle fingers
Pain in wrist/hand
Weakness in hand
Dropping objects
Nighttime symptoms
Shock-like sensations
Radiating pain up forearm

Treatment Options

Wrist splinting (especially at night)
NSAIDs for pain
Corticosteroid injections
Activity modification
Ergonomic adjustments
Nerve gliding exercises
Carpal tunnel release surgery (open or endoscopic)
Ultrasound therapy
Yoga and stretching

Risk Factors

1Female gender
2Obesity
3Repetitive hand use
4Pregnancy
5Diabetes
6Hypothyroidism
7Rheumatoid arthritis
8Wrist anatomy (smaller carpal tunnel)
9Trauma/injury to wrist

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Physical examination (Tinel's sign, Phalen's test)
  • 2Nerve conduction studies
  • 3Electromyography (EMG)
  • 4Ultrasound imaging
  • 5X-rays (to rule out other causes)
  • 6Blood tests (if systemic disease suspected)

Prognosis

Excellent with appropriate treatment. Most respond to conservative measures. Surgery provides permanent relief in 90%+ of cases. Recovery from surgery typically weeks to months. Recurrence uncommon after surgery.

Prevention

  • Ergonomic workstation setup
  • Frequent breaks from repetitive tasks
  • Wrist positioning (neutral)
  • Stretching exercises
  • Manage underlying conditions
  • Proper tool use
  • Alternate tasks when possible

Research Status

Wrist splinting first-line. Steroid injections for temporary relief. Carpal tunnel release surgery highly effective for persistent cases. Ultrasound guidance improving injection accuracy. Endoscopic techniques reducing recovery time.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanySpainFranceUnited KingdomGreeceIndiaItalyJapanMexicoSloveniaUnited States

Sources

  • https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.