Which condition is characterized by pain, weakness, and numbness in the hand due to nerve compression in the wrist?

• A. Ganglion
• B. Carpal Tunnel
• C. Shoulder Tendonitis
• D. Tendonitis

Answer: (B)

Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by pain, weakness, and numbness in the hand due to compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression affects the areas served by the median nerve—typically the thumb, index, and middle fingers—and can cause pain at night, tingling, and a weakening grip or dropping objects. The underlying issue is increased pressure within the wrist’s carpal tunnel, often from repetitive flexing or swelling. Treatment focuses on relieving pressure with a wrist splint, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory measures, with injections or surgery considered for persistent cases. The other options describe different problems: a ganglion is a cyst-like lump near the wrist, shoulder tendonitis is an issue in the shoulder, and general tendonitis involves tendon inflammation elsewhere, none of which produce the median nerve–related hand symptoms seen in carpal tunnel.