CTS

CTS is an acronym that can refer to several different concepts. The most common medical use is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, a condition caused by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel of the wrist. This compression produces numbness, tingling, and weakness in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. Symptoms are often worse at night and with repetitive hand use. Risk factors include female sex, obesity, diabetes, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, and wrist anatomy or injuries.

Diagnosis is based on clinical evaluation and may be supported by nerve conduction studies; provocative tests such as the Phalen maneuver and Tinel sign can be used. Treatment ranges from conservative to surgical. Conservative measures include wrist splinting, particularly at night, activity modification, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Corticosteroid injections can provide relief. Physical therapy may help. If symptoms persist despite appropriate conservative therapy, surgical release of the transverse carpal ligament (carpal tunnel release) is commonly performed. Prognosis varies; many patients experience symptom relief after treatment, but some may have persistent numbness or weakness.

Other uses: In communications and networking, CTS stands for Clear To Send, a control signal used with Request To Send to coordinate transmissions and help prevent collisions in networks that implement RTS/CTS handshakes. In academic and research contexts, CTS is used as the acronym for various centers and institutes, such as Center for Transportation Studies or similar entities, depending on the organization. Because CTS has multiple meanings, the intended referent is usually clear from context.