CARPAL TUNNEL TREATMENT
Disc Herniation Treatment/ "Slipped Disc" Treatment
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the median nerve in the arm and the hand. It can affect up to 3-4% of the population and is likely seen in those between 40-60 years of age. Carpal tunnel issues may come on suddenly or gradually over time.
There are usually multiple factors that contribute to developing carpal tunnel. Addressing those issues will be extremely important to your recovery. Combined with prompt Physiotherapy treatment, advice and following self-management techniques, recovery can be optimized. By following a guided treatment program, one can expect improvements within a short period of time.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel is a condition that affects the median nerve at the wrist level. The ‘tunnel’ is where blood vessels, tendons of the hand and fingers, and nerves travel down at the ‘carpal’ (bones that form the wrist) level. The tunnel is held together by a ligament sheath that forms the top part of the tunnel. This sheath holds all those structures together.
Because there is limited space in the tunnel, any additional narrowing of this tunnel can affect the median nerve. Pressure, swelling, irritation and/or injury to the nerve in this ‘tunnel’, can cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle and ring finger
- Weakness in hand especially the first 3 fingers (pincer grip)
- Stinging and pain in the wrist and fingers (first 3 fingers)
- Symptoms are usually worse and more intense at night time
How does it happen? The causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Predisposing factors
Wrist overload
Heavy or repetitive strain to the structures at the wrist can irritate the median nerve. This can range from warehouse workers lifting a heavy box to poor ergonomics in typing and using a mouse.
Age and Sex
This condition affects women more than men and is seen in people between the ages of 40-60.
Obesity
Those who are obese carry a higher chance to suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome.
Pregnancy
Fluid retention during pregnancy can put more pressure on the median nerve. Similarly, hormonal changes and an increased use of hands and wrist can increase the chance of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Other medical conditions
Such as acromegaly, kidney and thyroid diseases, and other hormonal imbalances. These conditions can influence the body’s fluid retention which affects the carpal tunnel.
Diabetes
Nerve damage from diabetes can affect the median nerve. The nerve can become more vulnerable to carpal tunnel syndrome.
Inflammatory conditions
Swelling and inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can reduce the space in the carpal tunnel. This decreased space in the tunnel can apply pressure to the median nerve causing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Carpal Tunnel Treatment - The EastWest Physiotherapy way
Acupuncture
Electrotherapy
Manual Therapy
The skilled use of our Physiotherapist’s hands to stretch tight muscles, and joints. We may also mobilize the median nerve and the structures around it. This will improve the movement of the nerve by breaking down the scar tissues around it.
Exercise and Activity Modifications
Exercise can help improve blood flow and facilitate healing in the carpal tunnel. Movement in itself can also help break down scar tissue, improve flexibility and strength.
Yet, certain activities that strain the wrist area are to be avoided as they can prolong the recovery of carpal tunnel syndrome. Depending on the stage of recovery, your Physiotherapist will make the appropriate progressions to ensure that you are doing the right exercises.
Taping/Bracing
Don’t hesitate to contact your Physiotherapists at EastWest Physiotherapy Burnaby to start your carpal tunnel treatment!.
