CTS involves paresthesias in which digits?

CTS involves paresthesias in which digits?

• A. Palmar aspects of the thumb, index, middle, and radial half of ring finger
• B. Little finger and ulnar half of ring finger
• C. Dorsal hand only
• D. Proximal palm sensation

Answer: (A)

Carpal tunnel syndrome disturbs sensation in the median nerve distribution of the hand. That means paresthesias appear on the palmar surface of the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the radial (lateral) half of the ring finger. The little finger and the ulnar half of the ring finger are supplied by the ulnar nerve, so they are not typically affected by CTS. Sensation on the dorsal hand can be less involved, as the median nerve mainly carries palmar finger sensation, especially in CTS.

Carpal tunnel syndrome disturbs sensation in the median nerve distribution of the hand. That means paresthesias appear on the palmar surface of the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and the radial (lateral) half of the ring finger. The little finger and the ulnar half of the ring finger are supplied by the ulnar nerve, so they are not typically affected by CTS. Sensation on the dorsal hand can be less involved, as the median nerve mainly carries palmar finger sensation, especially in CTS.