Overview
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand. The nerve in encased in a narrow, rigid passageway of ligament and bones called the carpal tunnel. Pain, weakness, and numbness may occur when thickening from irritated tendons or other swelling compress the median nerve inside the carpal tunnel.
Symptoms
Burning, tingling, or itching numbness in the palm of the hand and fingers, especially the thumb, index and middle fingers which can radiate up the wrist
Difficulty making a fist
Causes
Genetics (the carpal tunnel is simply smaller in some people than in others)
Trauma that causes swelling such as a fracture or sprain
Over activity of the pituitary gland
Hypothyroidism
Diabetes
Rheumatoid arthritis
Mechanical problems with the wrist joint
Work stress
Repeated use of vibrating hand tools
Fluid retention associated with pregnancy or menopause
A cyst or tumor
Diagnosis
Physical examination of the neck, shoulders, hands, wrist and fingers
Routine laboratory tests and x-rays
Symptom inducing tests
EMG
Treatments
Rest and immobilization
Application of cool packs
Anti-inflammatories
Corticosteroids
Stretching and strengthening exercises
Surgery
Source: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/