Dr. Mark S. Cohen, hand, wrist and elbow specialist at Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, provides a general overview on carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) as he discusses symptoms and treatment options.

When describing CTS, Dr. Cohen notes that it "is a syndrome whereby a nerve that goes to the hand is pinched or compressed. The layman's term would be 'pinched nerve."

Who typically experiences carpal tunnel syndrome?

Individuals in manual labor jobs such as: carpentry, meat packing and people using heavy vibratory tools are more inclined to this condition. Typing related activities do not cause CTS but may cause symptoms from the syndrome.

What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

• Tingling and numbness in fingers
• Hands fall asleep
• Waking during the night with tingling sensation in hands

In more advanced stages symptoms may include:

• Clumsiness or dropping of objects
• Difficulty with fine motor skills

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