What is primarily targeted by the application of pressure during the Carpal Compression Test?

The Carpal Compression Test is primarily designed to assess the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. During this test, pressure is applied over the carpal tunnel area, compressing the median nerve as it passes through this narrow passageway alongside tendons and other structures.

When the median nerve is compressed, it can result in symptoms indicative of carpal tunnel syndrome, such as pain, numbness, or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. This test is particularly effective because the symptoms it provokes are directly associated with the specific area of nerve involvement, allowing clinicians to determine whether the median nerve is compromised.

The focus of this test is not on the ulnar nerve, radial nerve, or digital nerves, as they are located in different anatomical positions and are not as significantly affected by compression in the carpal tunnel area. This highlights the importance of understanding the anatomical relationships and functions of the nerves in diagnosing conditions affecting the wrist and hand.