Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a result of compression of the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the wrist through the carpal tunnel. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome causes tingling, numbness, and weakness in the wrist or hands. The median nerve is responsible for controlling movement in your thumb and fingers (except pinky) and providing feeling to the palm.
The problem is not the median nerve itself, but with external factors that pressure or squeeze the median nerve. Often, the cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is not from one single issue but the result of a combination of factors. Wrist anatomy, health factors, or repetitive motions all contribute to the development of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Massage therapy is a great way to treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome because it helps to alleviate symptoms and can be used as a preventative measure. Working with a registered massage therapist can help slow down the progression of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, improve grip, reduce inflammation and pain, and prevent it from developing when administered early on.
A registered massage therapist may use deep tissue massage techniques to reduce inflammation in the areas surrounding the median nerve and improve flexibility and coordination in the wrist. For an expert RMT in Coquitlam or an RMT in Port Moody, book an appointment with our registered massage therapists at Inspine Therapy.
Our RMTs are determined to help you heal and improve your fundamental health by making sure your treatment plan is customized to your needs. Inspine Therapy is the best massage therapy in Port Moody for head-to-toe care.
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome develop gradually and often go unnoticed until more symptoms emerge. Symptoms typically appear in the dominant hand first and are often more severe.
What are the causes of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Anything that pinches or squeezes the median nerve will cause carpal tunnel syndrome. It includes physical traumas or injuries to the wrist or from using certain tools or repetitive motions like typing. As well as underlying health conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, or rheumatoid arthritis, that directly affect the nerve and cause compression. Women who are pregnant or on menopause are also at risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome due to fluid retention.
How do you prevent carpal tunnel syndrome?
There is no conclusive evidence proving any one strategy will prevent carpal tunnel syndrome, but there are certainly ways to reduce stress on the hands and wrist, such as:
- Keeping hands warm to maintain flexibility and preventing stiffness by using fingerless gloves or hand warmers
- At work, frequent breaks and stretching or alternating hands when using equipment, especially when using tools that vibrate or require force
- Using proper form when using a keyboard
- Good posture can help prevent shoulders from rolling forward, putting pressure on the arms, and compressing the neck nerve. Bad posture not only impacts arms and wrists but can lead to neck pain
- Using ergonomic work equipment
What are complementary ways to treat carpal tunnel syndrome?
After consultation with a doctor, you should seek treatment as early as possible to prevent the condition from worsening. However, it’s important to first address underlying conditions like diabetes or arthritis, as they can cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome to develop.
Aside from massage therapy, you can also treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with:
- Prescription or over-the-counter medicine
- Wrist Splints
- Avoiding activities that provoke symptoms
- Acupuncture or chiropractic care
For rehab after surgery: The period after any surgery is crucial, and physiotherapists help to promote faster, optimal recovery in a broad range of patients. They help with natural pain relief and use methods that promote blood flow – which significantly increases healing rates. Not only that, but depending on your specific condition, a Port Moody physio can assist with getting you up and walking faster, or regaining strength in an affected limb, for instance.
- Total Knee Replacements
- Hip Replacement
- Pre and Post Partum Related Conditions
- Scar Tissue
In extreme cases, surgery may be necessary. Either an endoscopic or open release surgery may take place to release pressure on the median nerve.
Need An Appointment?
Inspine Therapy is a multi-disciplinary clinic located in the heart of Coquitlam and Port Moody. We care about providing fundamental healing through all-in-one care that focuses on helping you recover, improve, and optimize your health until you’re in the best condition possible.
Our services include massage therapy, chiropractic, acupuncture, active rehab, clinical counselling, and pilates. Visit our newly renovated clinic and book your appointment today!
