Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and the Benefits of Massage Therapy

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm. The condition occurs when one of the major nerves to the hand — the median nerve — is squeezed or compressed as it travels through the wrist. Diagnostically, CTS is typically identified by symptoms and confirmed with nerve conduction studies. Symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain in the thumb and first three fingers, weakness in the hand, and difficulty with fine motor tasks.

Several conditions can mimic the symptoms of CTS, including:

• Wrist Tendonitis: Inflammation of a tendon in the wrist, which can occur from overuse.

• Arthritis: Inflammation and loss of cartilage in the joints, which can affect the hands and wrists.

• Cervical Radiculopathy: A condition where nerve roots near the cervical vertebrae are compressed, leading to similar symptoms as CTS.
  

The most common causes of CTS include repetitive hand movements, wrist anatomy, and underlying health conditions such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Occupational factors also play a role, with certain professions like sewing, knitting, and baking being more prone to developing CTS.

Carpal Tunnel Surgery and Its Failure Rate

Carpal tunnel surgery involves cutting the ligament that forms the roof of the carpal tunnel to reduce pressure on the median nerve. However, the failure rate of carpal tunnel surgery can be up to 2.7%. Complications can include wound infection, scar formation, and nerve or vascular injuries.

Why Massage Therapy Can Be a Better Alternative

Massage therapy can be a non-invasive alternative to surgery for managing CTS. Massage therapy helps CTS by:

• Increasing Circulation: Enhancing blood flow to the affected area to reduce numbness and tingling.

• Reducing Inflammation: Decreasing swelling in the carpal tunnel to alleviate pressure on the median nerve.

• Breaking Up Adhesions: Myofascial release techniques can loosen tight muscles and fascia in the forearm and wrist, relieving symptoms of CTS.

Research, including studies from the Touch Research Institutes at the University of Miami School of Medicine, has found that massage therapy lessens CTS symptoms and increases grip strength. Another study showed that manual therapy had a significantly larger decrease in pain intensity and increase in functionality compared to surgery

If you’re experiencing the discomfort and pain associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or similar conditions, you don’t have to endure it alone. Let my years of experience aid in providing relief for those suffering from CTS. I use a variety of techniques tailored to your specific needs, helping to alleviate the symptoms and improve your hand function. Book with me today!

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