How CTS Happens

The Carpal Tunnel is made up of several bones connected by ligaments. The largest of which is the Transverse Carpal Ligament. These structures form the perimeter of a passage through its center called the carpal tunnel (also called the carpal canal). Through this tunnel run nerves, tendons, blood and other soft tissues. For a variety of reasons some of these soft tissues swell, especially the tendons (red) and the protective sheaths that cover them. Overuse (Repetitive Strain Injury or RSI), injuries such as sprains, friction between the tendons and their protective sheaths, fractures, fluid retention, forceful movements and infection are a few of the more common causes. However, unlike most of your body where swelling simply protrudes, this swelling has no place to expand since it is encircled by bones and ligaments. Consequently, because the swelling is contained, pressure builds in the tunnel. This pressure then crushes the main nerve to your hand called the Median Nerve, causing it not to function properly. The pressure also obstructs blood flow which retards healing and causes further cell degeneration until the cycle spirals out of control. The results are the symptoms listed above and most victims are amazed by the swiftness mild symptoms can progress into a major problem.