Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The Carpal Tunnel is a passageway inside the wrist, aanti-inflammatory drugs (or NSAIDs) for those whose
tunnel surrounded by bones and ligaments. Aiming tocondition is brought on by inflammation or
protect the median nerve, the nerve that runs downCorticosteroids to relieve the pressure on the median
the arm and forearm into the hand, the Carpal Tunnelnerve, decreasing the pain in the process.
can sometimes be affected by a syndrome. ThisThe literal hands-on approach of spinal manipulation
syndrome, called Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, occursand deep friction massage can help manage the
when abnormal pressure is placed on the medianswelling that is pressing on the median nerve, causing
nerve, causing decreased hand and finger function andthe symptoms to flare up. Manual stretches of the
leaving those affected sometimes unable to performwrist and tendons, additionally, can help increase the
even the simplest tasks.blood flow to the hand.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel SyndromeWhile the evidence is not conclusive, some speculate
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can develop for many yearsthat dietary changes may lead to diminishing Carpal
with no noticeable symptoms. However, when the firstTunnel Syndrome symptoms by arming the body with
symptoms do appear they include burning or tinglingthe nutrients it needs to repair nerve damage and
sensations in the fingers, pain and numbness in thedecrease inflammation. By taking something as simple
hand, an inability to grasp onto objects, and aas a multi-vitamin, pressure from the median nerve
weakness of the hands. Because Carpal Tunnelmay be diminished, allowing it to repair itself back to its
Syndrome involves the median nerve, it affects thenatural state.
parts of the hand that the median nerve supplies.While the above mentioned treatment options are
These include the thumb, the index finger, the middleusually limited to being beneficial to those who have
finger, and half of the ring finger. Since the pinky fingermild to moderate cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome,
is not controlled by the median nerve, the pinky fingerfor those who have severe cases, surgery may be
is not usually hindered by Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.the best option.
Those experiencing symptoms for the first time mayThough there are several approved surgeries for
notice that their Carpal Tunnel Syndrome flares up atCarpal Tunnel Syndrome, they all involve the same
night and that they can sometimes get relief bytheme of the cutting of the ligament that is pressing on
vigorously shaking their hand.the median nerve. They are also all procedures done
Known as a "hidden disability," people with Carpalon an out patient basis, with a small incision cut in the
Tunnel Syndrome may fully function from the view ofwrist or the palm and a recovery time of just a few
an outsider, with hands that are able to engage in mostweeks. While not all surgeries are successful in
normal activities. But, the person with Carpal Tunnelrelieving the symptoms, roughly 70 percent of patients
Syndrome usually has some restriction of handwho choose surgery report satisfaction with the
function or significant pain during hand movement.outcome.
What Causes Carpal Tunnel SyndromeCarpal Tunnel Syndrome can happen for reasons that
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is often caused by underlyingare understood and for reasons that are unknown.
conditions that place a strain on the median nerve,However, practicing self-care can prevent some of
compromising the blood supply it delivers to the fingers.the symptoms that arise no matter the underlying
These can include existing diseases such as diabetes,cause. From keeping hands warm to improving
which increases the sensitivity of pressure to theposture, and from relaxing the grip while performing
median nerve, and hypothyroidism, which can increasetasks with the hands to taking frequent breaks, the
the amount of water retained in the arms and wrists.best chance at preventing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Many causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome aren'tusually lies with some conscientious effort.
disease-based, however, causes can be generatedAbout us: The Center for Osteopathic Medicine in
from external stimuli, such as wrist injuries, fractures ofBoulder, Colorado believes in The Osteopathic
the arm bone, and dislocation of one of the carpalDifference. In a medical industry focused on treating
bones in the wrist. Pregnancy, because it can causesymptoms, The Center is more focused on finding the
swelling of the wrists, can also place pressure on thecause of these symptoms. The Osteopathic
median nerve by narrowing the carpal tunnel.Difference is the application of "Hands on
Many instances of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome areTherapeutics" for both the diagnosis and treatment of
thought to be idiopathic, having no obvious cause.complaints, disorders, and pain. The Osteopathic
However, even with idiopathic instances, certainDifference will apply the time proven osteopathic fact
activities can aggravate the symptoms of Carpalthat function is directly related to structure, and poor
Tunnel Syndrome. These can include using powerstructure will lead to poor function.
tools or working on an assembly line, constantlyWhile The Center tries to focus on health, and above
performing repetitive - and sometimes awkward -all else, prevention for all those who cross into its
motions. Certain people can even be born with anthreshold, sometimes the best that can be done is to
abnormally narrow carpal tunnel, making themrecognize the source of the "DIS-EASE," and to teach
predisposed to the syndrome that may accompany it.every individual how to manage their symptoms.
While Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can affect allBelieving that it is the most important aspect of any
demographics, it is far more common in women than intreatment regime, and that it is the primary job of the
men. It is also most common in those who are middlehealth care practitioner, The Center works to
aged and post-menopausal. Obesity and tobacco useempower the patient in the maintenance of their own
increases a person's risk.health.
Treatment of Carpal Tunnel SyndromeAchieving health is also an elusive place, and The
Many people with a mild case of Carpal TunnelCenter will work tirelessly to create a path to health
Syndrome will find relief simply in adjusting their lifestylewhich, when embraced by the patient over time, will
and workstyle habits. While foregoing repetitive wristallow the patient to enjoy a positive return on their
activity may not be feasible, particularly when a careerrehabilitation investment. The Center teaches a
is based on repetitive motion, allowing the wrist time toMindfulness Yoga Program that aims to educate the
rest while at work and at play can greatly relieve thepatient in the power of the mind to minimize, if not rid
symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Resting thethe body of, aches and pain. Although the ultimate goal
wrist for great lengths at a time may seem like aof health is to live without the use of drugs, natural or
reasonable break, but studies have shown that it isotherwise, The Center for Osteopathic Medicine
more beneficial for those afflicted by Carpal Tunnelrecognizes the importance of medicinals and their
Syndrome to take several small breaks, rather thanappropriate use. All styles of "Hands on Manipulation"
one that is lengthy. Applying cold packs to relieve anyare practiced at The Center. By combining these
swelling of the hands and wrists is also a helpful formManipulative techniques with Structural Integration,
of treatment.massage, meditation and Western Medicine, The
For those with a case of Carpal Tunnel SyndromeCenter for Osteopathic Medicine helps people to
that is not aided by rest or cold compressions, wristidentify disease before it manifests, quiet pains that
splinting is an alterative form of treatment. A person,have been previously diagnosed as Chronic, and
wearing a splint that keeps their hand still while theyembrace a holistic mindset to Live in the Present- and
sleep, may notice that the symptoms of burning, tingling,within that presence, live completely well.
and pain are greatly relieved. Wrist splinting, however, isThe information discussed in this article is for
usually only helpful for those who have had symptomsinformational and educational purposes only. If you are
of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome for less than a year.experiencing symptoms of a health problem, please
While Carpal Tunnel Syndrome certainly doesn't havevisit your doctor. The material discussed on this
a magic pill serving as an antidote in its healing, therewebsite is not meant to replace the opinion or
are certain medications that can relieve its pain anddiagnosis of a medical professional.
discomfort. These can include Nonsteroidal