rannekanavaoireyhtymässä

Rannekanavaoireyhtymä, known in English as carpal tunnel syndrome, is a common condition characterized by pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. It occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed or squeezed at the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway in the wrist formed by bones and ligaments; the median nerve and several tendons pass through this tunnel. Swelling or inflammation of these tendons can narrow the tunnel, putting pressure on the median nerve.

Symptoms typically begin gradually and may worsen over time. They often include a burning or tingling sensation in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and half of the ring finger. Some individuals experience weakness in the hand, leading to difficulty with gripping objects. Symptoms may be more pronounced at night, potentially waking individuals from sleep. Activities that involve prolonged or repetitive bending of the wrist, such as typing or operating machinery, can exacerbate the condition.

The exact cause of carpal tunnel syndrome is not always clear, but certain factors are associated with an increased risk. These include anatomical factors like wrist injuries or conditions that cause inflammation or swelling in the wrist, such as rheumatoid arthritis. Hormonal changes, like those during pregnancy, and underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disorders can also contribute. Obesity is another identified risk factor.

Diagnosis often involves a physical examination, a review of symptoms, and sometimes nerve conduction studies or electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function. Treatment approaches vary depending on the severity of symptoms and can include conservative measures like wrist splinting, activity modification, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In more severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgical decompression of the carpal tunnel may be recommended.