OHST Practice Exam

Which of the following is NOT a symptom of Carpal tunnel syndrome?

1. Numbness in little finger

2. Pain in the wrist upon exertion

3. Pain in the second and third fingers

4. Inflammation and swelling of the wrist

The correct answer is: Numbness in little finger

Numbness in the little finger is not typically associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). CTS is primarily caused by the compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This condition usually results in symptoms manifesting in the thumb, index finger, middle finger, and part of the ring finger, which are innervated by the median nerve. The little finger, however, is primarily innervated by the ulnar nerve, which is why symptoms such as numbness or tingling in that area are not characteristic of CTS. In contrast, the pain experienced in the wrist upon exertion, pain in the second and third fingers, and inflammation and swelling of the wrist are common symptoms associated with the syndrome, as they relate directly to the pressure on the median nerve and inflammation caused by repetitive movements or strain in the wrist area.