carpal tunnel

anatomy

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Last updated

June 22, 2026

Quick Summary

The carpal tunnel is a narrow passage in the wrist formed by carpal bones and the transverse carpal ligament. This passage contains the median nerve, blood vessels, and finger flexor tendons.1

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when pressure is placed on the median nerve within this tunnel, often due to repetitive wrist or hand movements, swelling of tendons, or underlying medical conditions. This compression can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, and pain in the wrist and hand. The wrist itself is a complex joint made of eight carpal bones arranged in two rows, connecting the hand to the forearm bones (radius and ulna).1234

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wrist
…through a narrow opening, the carpal tunnel. In carpal tunnel syndrome, a narrowing of this opening painfully compresses the nerves during wrist flexion. Other common wrist problems include bone fractures, dislocations of the various component joints, and inflamed tendons and ligaments from overuse.
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…through a narrow opening, the carpal tunnel. In carpal tunnel syndrome, a narrowing of this opening painfully compresses the nerves during wrist flexion. Other common wrist problems include bone fractures, dislocations of the various component joints, and inflamed tendons and ligaments from overuse.
Read More