What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
With the increase use of smartphones and tablets we are noticing that more patients are experiencing numbness and tingling into their fingers. These symptoms can be a sign of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The carpal tunnel is a small tunnel located within the wrist. This tunnel allows the passage of tendons, nerves and blood vessels to the fingers, as shown below:
Too much pressure on the carpal tunnel can collapse the opening. This can cause pressure to build on one of the main nerves, called the Median nerve. The median nerve supplies sensation to the hand as shown below:
Some signs of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include:
- Numbness or pins and needles in the fingers
- Pain and numbness that is worse at night and can interrupt sleep
- Hand weakness
- Burning pain in the thumb, index and middle fingers
The chances of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can increase due to:
- Wrist fracture or dislocation
- Women tend to have a higher risk of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome than men
- Nerve-damaging conditions
- Using a computer or electronic device
If you have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome what should you do?
- See a doctor if symptoms persist
- Stretches can help reduce the severity
- Splints or braces can help prevent reinjury
- Corticosteriod injections can help reduce the pain and inflammation
- Surgery may be required if the symptoms do not go away
At the clinic, we offer different treatment options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including:
- Joint mobilization and manipulation
- Targeted muscle stretches
- Graston Therapy
- Electroacupunture
- Interferential Therapy
- Braces and Supports
In most cases, the above mentioned treatments can help reduce the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. If a patient does not respond, they may be a candidate for surgery. A video of carpal tunnel surgery can be found below (not for the faint of heart!)To help prevent surgery, here are a few stretches that can help if you are suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The goal is to help open the tunnel, and relax the forearm muscles helping to provide space for the Median nerve.
To learn more about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, book a free consultation today! Ph: 905-593-1605.