Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to symptoms associated with compression/pressure of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel (located at the wrist). Patients with carpal tunnel commonly describe numbness/tingling in the first three fingers and sometimes suffer from weakness in the same area. Symptoms tend to be worst at night and sometimes are relieved by changing position. When the condition is suspected, it can be confirmed using special testing called electromyogram (EMG) and nerve conduction studies performed by a neurologist. When severe, release of the carpal tunnel (via surgery) can be performed to relieve symptoms.
Read more about Carpal tunnel syndrome on the AANS website.
Compressive ulnar neuropathy
The ulnar nerve runs down the arm and can be compressed at several locations causing symptoms. Most commonly, the nerve is compressed at the elbow and leads to numbness and tingling in the fourth and fifth fingers and, if severe, weakness in the hand. When the condition is suspected, it can be confirmed using special testing called electromyogram (EMG) and nerve conduction studies performed by a neurologist. Sometimes it is necessary to release the compression via surgery to relieve symptoms.
Read more about Compressive ulnar neuropathy on the Johns Hopkins University website.
