This condition, usually associated with repetitive motion activity, can also occur with pregnancy, arthritis or drugs that cause water retention. CTS symptoms can include a prickling or numbness in the hand, searing pain, limited dexterity or even paralysis.

CTS occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed by swollen tendons. About half of all CTS cases are treated with vitamins, braces and stretching exercises. In unresponsive cases, surgical division of the carpal ligament usually brings relief.