Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway located on the palm side of your wrist, which is formed by bones and ligaments. This tunnel protects the main nerve to your hand and the tendons that bend your fingers.
Related terms
Median Nerve: A major nerve of the upper limb that passes through the carpal tunnel and provides sensation to parts of the hand.
Flexible but inelastic cords of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A condition caused by compression of the median nerve within the carpal tunnel, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm