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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)
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The topic I chose to research was carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), a condition caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel. This topic relates to the class objective from unit 4: “Describe the structure and function of peripheral nerves, including common disorders that affect them.” Carpal Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the space in the carpal tunnel located at the wrist becomes restricted due to swelling, repetitive motion, and or injury. As shown in the masterpiece I’ve made the carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway formed by the carpal bones on the bottom and the transverse carpal ligament on top. Inside this tunnel are the median nerve and flexor tendons that control finger movement, so how I am typing this… When the tendons become inflamed or the tunnel narrows the median nerve compresses and leads to symptoms like numbness, tingling and pain in the dumb index and middle fingers. Over time, muscles weakens and difficulty with grip strength developes, particularly if left untreated. The photo highlights the key structures involved: the transverse carpal ligament, this acts as the roof of the tunnel; median nerve which is responsible for sensation and motor control in parts of the hand and flexor tendons which facilitate finger movement. Compression of the median nerve disrupts its ability to send and receive signals, this causes symptoms that often begin gradually such as tingling during or after repetitive wrist movements from typing-
A study on ergonomic interventions found that workers who adjusted their workstation setup wore wrist supporters, and practiced stretching exercises were 43% less like to develop CTS symptoms (Gupta A “Workplace ergonomics and its role in carpal tunnel syndrome prevention”) Early treatment is crucial to avoid long term damage. Initial treatments often include wrist splints which keep the wrist in a neutral position and corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation. In severe cases surgery may be nectary to release the transverse carpal ligament and relieve pressure on the median nerve.
For my project, I created a diagram. It includes labeled structures such as the transverse carpal ligament, carpal bones, median nerve, and flexor tendons. The model also demonstrates how swelling or compression in the tunnel affects the median nerve. This visual representation helps illustrate importance of prevention and early intervention.
Sources:
Gupta, A., “Workplace ergonomics and its role in carpal tunnel syndrome prevention.” Frontiers in Public Health, 10.
Keir, P. J . “Risk factors and mechanisms of work-related musculoskeletal disorders: Focus on carpal tunnel syndrome.” Journal of Applied Ergonomics, 85.
OpenStax. (2024). Human Anatomy and Physiology.
I did not take a picture OF ME ON MY IPAD drawing this but I hope this is acceptable as this is all the proof I have… thanks!