[vc_row][vc_column width="1/1"][vc_column_text]By: Active Sports Therapy
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition in which the patient feels numbness, tingling and other symptoms that can be uncomfortable or painful in the hand and arm. It is caused by the compression of the nerve in the carpal tunnel, hence it’s name. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of the wrist. The issue is related to the median nerve which goes from your forearm and through the carpal tunnel passageway to your hand. It is responsible for sensation in your hands as well as muscle function. When this nerve is squeezed or the passageway is narrowed, then we feel the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Causes can range from arthritis and inflammation, workplace factors such as computer work and working with tools where repetitive motion is required. Obesity is a risk factor, as is genetics of your wrist area, and females tend to suffer from this condition more often than men.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome will usually start off progressing in a gradual way. The most common symptoms include the following:
Tingling and Numbness – this could be in your hand or in your fingers and is often felt in the thumb, index, middle or ring fingers. The sensation may travel from the wrist and even into the arm. You may feel these sensations when the hands are outstretched doing something such as holding a newspaper or book, or a smart phone.
Weakness – You may feel like your hands are weaker than usual. This could be due to the numbness and the issues that are happening in the median nerve.
Preventative measures would involve taking the stress off of your hands and wrists where possible. If your work contributes to this you can first look at your keyboard and mouse and invest in tools that don’t strain your wrists. Take breaks and stretch the area by gently stretching your hands and wrists back and forth. Alternating tasks and giving your hands a break can be helpful. If you’re working outside, try keep your hands and wrists warm with gloves or fingerless gloves when required.
Treatment From Our Clinic
If you think you may be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, our clinic has several treatments that might benefit you. Active Release Techniques for one can be very helpful to treat this syndrome. The practitioner will evaluate your mobility and tightness of the area which will usually be due to the presence of scar tissue. By using manual pressure, the practitioner can break up the scar tissue to lessen the pressure on the median nerve, resulting in a reduction in symptoms. Many people can find relief in just a few treatments!
For more information, call or email our booking line.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
