National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

Carpal tunnel syndrome primarily affects the wrist. This condition occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, becomes compressed or pinched. Symptoms often include pain, numbness, or tingling in the thumb and first three fingers, which are all innervated by the median nerve.

In contrast, the shoulder, ankle, and knee are not involved in this specific syndrome. The shoulder is associated with different conditions, such as rotator cuff injuries, while ankle issues may involve sprains or tendonitis. The knee typically experiences problems related to ligaments, cartilage, or arthritis. Understanding the anatomy and function of these regions highlights why the wrist is specifically at risk for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.