CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Bilateral Lateral Hand Syndrome (Carpal Tunnel Syndrome) is common in adults, especially women, and is probably the most frequent problem referred for electrodiagnosis. This condition can be related to sustained positions of the upper extremity and is considered a prototype of a work-related condition caused by repetitive motion of the wrist - repetitive stress syndrome. On examination, there may be sensory loss over the lateral three fingers and the adjacent ring finger. Weakness and atrophy (wasting away, dimunition in size) of the muscle may be detectable of the lateral thenar muscles (palm and thumb) which are almost always affected by the median nerve (arm through shoulder). Carpal tunnel is a common yet serious condition which afflicts millions of Americans, many of whom are often untreated.