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 1 st through 3 rd phalanges, and the radial side of the 4 th 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