MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Wrist anatomy

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Wrist anatomy

The median nerve travels through a compartment called the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The ligaments that transverse the nerve are not very flexible. If there is any swelling within the wrist compartment excessive pressure can be put on structures such as the blood vessels and the median nerve. Excessive pressure can constrict bloodflow and cause nerve damage. The symptoms from the compression causes pain, loss of sensation, and decreased function in the hand.

Update Date: 11/2/2006

Updated by: Thomas N. Joseph, MD, Private Practice specializing in Orthopaedics, subspecialty Foot and Ankle, Camden Bone & Joint, Camden, SC. Reviewprovided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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