rannekanavaoireyhtymän

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

The median nerve controls sensation in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger, as well as motor function in some small muscles at the base of the thumb. When this nerve is squeezed within the carpal tunnel, it can cause numbness, tingling, and pain. These sensations are often most noticeable at night and may wake the affected individual. In more severe cases, weakness in the hand and difficulty with grip may also occur, leading to dropping objects.

The exact cause of rannekanavaoireyhtymä is not always clear, but several factors can contribute to its development. Repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as those performed in certain occupations or during hobbies, are strongly associated with the condition. Other contributing factors include inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders. Anatomical variations in the carpal tunnel can also play a role.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, during which a healthcare professional will assess the patient's symptoms and perform specific tests, such as the Phalen's maneuver or the Tinel's sign. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of nerve compression.

Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the symptoms. Mild to moderate cases may be managed with conservative measures, including wrist splinting to keep the wrist in a neutral position, activity modification to avoid aggravating movements, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. Injections of corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel can also provide temporary relief. For severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be necessary. Carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel, thereby relieving pressure on the median nerve.