Many students complain about severe wrist pain after typing yet another multiple-page report. This pain is the hallmark of carpal tunnel syndrome, which is an inflammation of connective tissue due to repeated movement. Which of the following structures is NOT involved in this disorder?

intercarpal ligaments

median nerve

extensor retinaculum

flexor retinaculum

extensor retinaculum

Explanation:

If the median nerve that goes from the wrist at the carpal tunnel gets compressed then a condition called as carpal tunnel syndrome arises. On the anterior surface, the carpal tunel is surrounded by flexor retinaculum. If there is inflammation in the flexor tendons then it can lead to the compression of the median nerve and hence, cause pain. The intercarpal ligaments are responsible for the stabilization of the bony arch of the tunnel. Therefore, the intercarpal ligaments, the median nerve as well as the flexor retinaculum are involved in the carpal tunnel syndrome.