Myths of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are so many "old wives tales" surrounding carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) that I thought I'd debunk a few.
Myth #1: CTS is related to typing or computers.
In short, this is simply untrue. This theory is based upon very poorly done "junk science" from years ago. This was made a big deal by

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Endoscopic Carpal Tunnel Release – There are Different Types

Endoscopic carpal tunnel release (ECTR) provides the same cure from carpal tunnel syndrome as does open carpal tunnel release (open CTR), but with less pain, less problems and a quicker return to work and other activities. Compared to open CTR, ECTR leads to less pain and weakness, and a quicker

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Basilar (Basal) Thumb Arthritis

The base of the thumb (the trapeziometacarpal joint) is commonly affected by arthritis. The arthritis often causes pain during pinching and gripping. It may be especially severe when opening jars or turning a key. It may progressively worsen until most/all hand activities become painful.

The

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are so many myths and so much misinformation regarding carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) that I thought it might be good for a hand surgeon to go through the facts. Here are some common questions that I often hear:
What is the carpal tunnel?
The carpal tunnel is a passage for the median nerve

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Carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy

Carpal tunnel syndrome is very common during pregnancy. It's probably caused by all of the swelling and fluid shifts that the mother goes through. Extra fluid collects throughout the body, including inside the carpal tunnel. This compresses the median nerve about the wrist, leading to carpal

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Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome

Ulnar tunnel syndrome is when the ulnar nerve gets compressed at the wrist. The small and ring fingers go numb. The symptoms are very similar to those of cubital tunnel syndrome, but ulnar tunnel syndrome is much less common. These two nerve compression syndromes are therefore often confused.

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