Carpal tunnel syndrome is primarily due to inflammation of which nerve?

Carpal tunnel syndrome is primarily associated with the median nerve because this nerve travels through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway located on the palm side of the wrist. In cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, the median nerve becomes compressed due to inflammation of the surrounding tissues, including the synovial lining of the flexor tendons. This compression can result in symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand, particularly in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger.

The other nerves mentioned do not play a primary role in carpal tunnel syndrome. The ulnar nerve, for instance, is responsible for sensation and movement in the inner part of the hand and is typically associated with a different condition known as cubital tunnel syndrome when compressed at the elbow. The radial nerve mainly innervates the back of the arm and forearm and is responsible for extending the wrist and fingers, while the brachial nerve does not exist as a distinct entity; rather, the term "brachial plexus" refers to a network of nerves that supply the upper limb. Therefore, the median nerve is the key player in the development of carpal tunnel syndrome due to its anatomical course through the