In the human wrist there is a sheath of tough connective tissue which surrounds and protects the median nerve and tendons that attach muscles to the wrist and hand bones. The Carpal Tunnel is the space above ane below this sheath and the bones making up the carpal bones in the wrist and hand. The term ‘Carpal Tunnel’ is also used quite commonly to refer to ‘Carpal Tunnel Syndrome’ which is a condition where the median nerve is pinched within the tunnel and causes pain and/or numbness of the wrist/hand, once thought to be a result of repetitive motion such as painting or typing. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a medical condition more common in women than it is in men, and has a peak incidence around age 50 though it can occur in any adult. What are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel? The first symptoms of Carpal Tunnel usually appear when trying to sleep. Symptoms range from a burning, tingling numbness in the fingers, especially of the thumb and index and middle fingers to difficulty gripping and making a fist. Inability to firmly grasp and dropping things can become an issue. If left untreated the symptoms can progress, and increasing […] read more