Definition: The carpal tunnel is an opening from the wrist to the hand that is formed by the wrist bones on the bottom and a thick connective tissue band on the top. Many ligaments run through the carpal tunnel as well as the ever important median nerve.
The median nerve provides the sensation of touch to the thumb, index finger, long finger, and half of the ring finger. This nerve also controls motor movement of the fingers and thumb.
When the median nerve becomes compressed through this tunneled opening, carpal tunnel syndrome results.
Also Known As: wrist tunnel
