Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can indeed affect the carpal tunnel. Here are some key points:

- Commonality: It's very common to have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) when you have RA, especially if RA affects your wrists. Research shows that 75% of people with RA have wrist involvement
- Mechanism: RA causes inflammation, pain, Show Full Answer

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can indeed affect the carpal tunnel. Here are some key points:

- Commonality: It's very common to have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) when you have RA, especially if RA affects your wrists. Research shows that 75% of people with RA have wrist involvement.
- Mechanism: RA causes inflammation, pain, and swelling in the joints, which can lead to pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel, causing CTS.
- Symptoms: CTS causes numbness, tingling, and pain that can shoot down to the fingertips, while RA causes pain that is aching, stiff, or sore.
- Diagnosis: Doctors can differentiate between RA and CTS through physical exams, lab tests, and imaging.
- Treatment: Treating the swelling from RA can help alleviate CTS symptoms.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the article "Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs. Arthritis: What’s the Difference?" on CreakyJoints.

 This AI-generated response comes from myRAteam and other selected sources. It is not a substitute for medical advice. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs. Arthritis: What’s the Difference?

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