Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS)

In my practice as a licensed massage therapist I am exposed to the pain and suffering that CTS causes.

In this note is a very brief description of CTS and some of the things that might help with the pain.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is an unhealthy condition in which the median nerve is compressed within the carpal tunnel (wrist bones).

When structures within the wrist bones are hurt, swelling occurs. The swelling compresses the median nerve which causes pain.

If the pain is left untreated, it becomes constant (chronic). Scar tissue might develop and create even more pressure on the median nerve.

Some of the ways CTS might happen are; repetitive movements in which the hand is over-flexed or over-extended ( such as typing or weightlifting), bad hand posture, a fall in which the hand is used to stop yourself when you hit the ground, etc.

Some of the things that might help with CTS are; regular ice applications, hand and wrist braces, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, massage therapy.

Once the pain is gone, it is very important to strengthen the muscles of the arm and hand to prevent a future injury.

If self-care or massage therapy is not effective, a doctor who specializes in neurology might be another option to consider.

Before any kind of option treatment or action is taken, personal research (due diligence) is highly recommended. Talk to as many experts as you can. Search on the internet or library and get educated and informed in order to make the most beneficial decision for your journey towards healing. Best of luck!