1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Pressure on the median nerve that leads to numbness, tingling, weakness, or muscle damage in the hands and fingers.

2. Anatomy of Carpal Tunnel • The median nerve goes through the carpal tunnel under the transverse carpal ligament. • The median nerve goes to the 1st through 3rd phalanges, and the radial side of the 4th phalange.

3. How do you get Carpal Tunnel? • Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is common in people who perform repetitive motions using the hand and wrist. • Examples: • Typing on a computer • Sewing • Driving • Painting • Writing • Carpenters • Athletes playing racquetball • Some musicians

4. Treatment • You may wear a splint; it may or may not help • Medications • Anti-inflammatory drugs: Ibuprofen and Naproxen • Corticosteroid Injections (Cortisone) may relieve pain for a period of time • Surgery • Cuts into the ligament that is pressing on the median nerve • Outpatient Surgery: Patient returns home that day • Change work conditions • Change position in hands when typing or using tools • Change keyboard placement to make sure wrists aren’t bent while typing • Have cushioned mouse pads

5. Recovery • Full recovery can take up to a month • Keep hand elevated for a few days to limit swelling • Side effects • Nausea • Shivering