November 11, 2024
Many people know that carpal tunnel syndrome has something to do with wrist dysfunction. But what is it, really, and what can be done about it?
The median nerve controls movement and feeling in your digits from your thumb to your ring finger. It runs the length of your arm and goes through a passage in your wrist called the carpal tunnel. Swelling in the carpal tunnel can interfere with the median nerve and cause burning, tingling, or itching. Discomfort often starts in the hands and can extend all the way to your shoulder. In bad cases, carpal tunnel syndrome causes loss of strength and coordination. Permanent damage can result, so don’t put off treatment.
The public knows that carpal tunnel syndrome is associated with repetitive tasks such as typing, especially with bad posture. Ergonomic improvements may help, but symptoms are also associated with obesity, hypothyroidism, arthritis, diabetes, pregnancy, trauma, and other situations.
Surgery is available as a last resort. Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs and immobilization. If so, ask about a referral to Back to Action Physical Therapy. A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that programs of exercises and stretches for the spine, shoulder, and wrist were more effective than splinting. These programs cut the risk of surgery by 39%. A different study in the British Medical Journal found that therapeutic ultrasound created satisfactory improvement or complete remission in 74% of patients. Physical therapy has approaches to create short-term relief and also physical improvement to prevent recurrence.
In reviewing this data, you agree that this is not medical advice and that medical advice should only be heeded after a proper assessment from a licensed healthcare professional.
