Year: 2014
Type: article
Abstract: IntroDuCtIonCarpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a symptomatic compression neuropathy of the median nerve at the level of the wrist; characterised by hand pain, numbness, and tingling in the distribution of the median nerve (thumb, index, middle finger, and the radial side of the ring finger) and a reduction in grip strength and hand function.The severity of symptoms can be clinically categorised into mild, moderate, and severe.A figure of 55-65% of CTS cases present bilaterally 1 and the condition can be associated with conditions such as hypothyroidism, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.CTS may present in late pregnancy but is usually transient.A study from the UK General Practice Research Database in 2000, calculated the incidence in males to be 88 per 100 000 and in females to be 193 per 100 000, with new presentations being most frequent at ages 45-54 years in females and 75-84 years in males. 2 CTS is a recognised workrelated musculoskeletal disorder (WMSD) caused by strain and repeated movements (biomechanical overload) and is hence more common in manual workers.Work absence and associated healthcare costs contribute to a significant socioeconomic burden on the UK economy.3 Consultations and surgical referrals appear to be increasing and commissioners are engaged in the review of referral protocols, incorporating conservative treatments for mild-to-moderate disease, to help manage surgical demand.
Institutions: Arthritis Research UK, Keele University
Language: English
Topic: Peripheral Nerve Disorders
Subfield: Clinical Neurology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
Award: In-Practice Fellowship
OpenAlex ID: W2105035169