Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

What is not a symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome?

1. Numbness in the little finger

2. Stiffness in the wrist

3. Weakness in the grip

4. Pain in the forearm

The correct answer is: Numbness in the little finger

Numbness in the little finger is not considered a symptom of carpal tunnel syndrome. This condition primarily affects the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. The symptoms most commonly associated with carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness, tingling, or weakness in the thumb, index, middle fingers, and part of the ring finger—areas innervated by the median nerve. The little finger is supplied by the ulnar nerve, which is not typically impacted in carpal tunnel syndrome. In contrast, symptoms such as stiffness in the wrist, weakness in the grip, and pain in the forearm can occur due to the compression of the median nerve. These symptoms arise because the condition can lead to inflammation and irritation surrounding the nerve, affecting not only sensation but also motor function in the hand. Understanding the distribution of nerve innervation is crucial in identifying symptoms accurately in relation to different nerve pathologies.