A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

carpal tunnel syndrome
A condition where there is a disturbance of median nerve function in the wrist as the nerve passes through the carpal tunnel.
A buildup of scar tissue (inside the carpal tunnel) can lead to this surgically correctable problem. Often treated with splinting and anti-inflammatory agents.

carpal tunnel release
An orthopaedic surgical procedure which relieves the pressure exerted on the median nerve within the carpal tunnel in the wrist.
This surgery may be performed conventionally via a small incision or using a fibreoptic scope (endoscopic carpal tunnel repair).

cervical spine
The seven vertebrae which make up the bones of the neck. The bones are named C1 through to C7.

circumduction
see Terms of Movement

Colles fracture
A common fracture of the distal radius at the wrist joint due to a fall on an outstretched hand.
Colles fracture is also referred to as the silver fork deformity, because the distal fracture fragment is usually angulated upwards (dorsal angulation). The resultant bend in the wrist results in the familiar appearance of a fork. If the resultant fracture angulation is in the opposite direction (toward the palm) it is referred to as a Smith's fracture.

contracture
A condition of fixed high resistance to passive stretch of a muscle, resulting from fibrosis of the tissues supporting the muscles or the joints or from disorders of the muscle fibres.

contusion
Bleeding within a muscle, often as a result of a direct blow to the muscle. See Sprains, Strains and Contusions

coronal plane
see Anatomical Planes

cryotherapy
The therapeutic use of cold to reduce discomfort, limit progression of tissue oedema or break a cycle of muscle spasm. Cryotherapy is a form of counterirritation.