Which term is primarily associated with compression of the median nerve at the wrist, causing numbness in the fingers?

• A. Pronator Teres Syndrome
• B. Tendonitis
• C. Carpal Tunnel
• D. Ganglion

Answer: (C)

This question tests understanding of compression of the median nerve at the wrist, which is classic carpal tunnel syndrome. When the median nerve is squeezed inside the carpal tunnel, sensation is lost or altered in the thumb, index, middle, and the radial side of the ring finger, producing numbness and tingling that often worsens at night or with repetitive wrist use. The diagnosis is supported by symptoms and provocative tests like Phalen’s maneuver or Tinel sign at the wrist. It’s important to contrast this with compression at a different site, such as the elbow in pronator teres syndrome, which affects the nerve higher up and can change the symptom pattern. Tendonitis involves inflamed tendons, not nerve compression, and a ganglion is a cyst that can cause different mechanical issues rather than the specific nerve entrapment described. Management ranges from wrist splinting and anti-inflammatories to corticosteroid injections and, if needed, surgical release of the carpal tunnel to relieve the pressure on the nerve.