Tunnelsyndrooma

Tunnelsyndrooma, commonly known as carpal tunnel syndrome in English, is a medical condition characterized by compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression can lead to a variety of symptoms.

The median nerve controls sensation and movement in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger. When it becomes compressed within the narrow carpal tunnel, it can result in numbness, tingling, and pain in these areas. Some individuals may also experience weakness in the hand and a difficulty with fine motor tasks. Symptoms often worsen at night and can be exacerbated by repetitive hand and wrist movements.

The exact cause of tunnelsyndrooma is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development. These include anatomical factors such as a smaller carpal tunnel, medical conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and thyroid disorders, as well as occupational factors involving prolonged or repetitive wrist flexion and extension. Pregnancy can also lead to temporary carpal tunnel syndrome due to fluid retention.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination to assess symptoms and nerve function, and may include nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of nerve compression.

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. Conservative treatments may include wrist splinting, particularly at night, activity modification to avoid aggravating movements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections into the carpal tunnel or surgical decompression of the median nerve may be recommended. Surgery involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel to relieve pressure on the nerve.