Carpal tunnel syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common and potentially disabling condition. When suspected, the diagnosis can be readily made on clinical evidence without the the need for extensive ancillary tests. Primary physicians should be able to manage most patients with medical therapy. Patients for whom medical treatment fails or who present with weakness or thenar atrophy should be referred to a competent hand surgeon. Most patients can expect to have a good outcome if the diagnosis is made early, appropriate therapy is instituted, and a periodic reassessment is done to guide further clinical decisions.