By Dr. Alyssa Musgrove
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the most common nerve compression disorder
of the upper extremity. One reason it is so common is because many daily
activities require fast, repetitive use of the arms, hands and fingers.
Reoccurring friction on the muscle and tendons causes swelling and
inflammation. When there is less available space within the carpal tunnel (due to
inflamed tendons, for example) the added pressure can compress the median
nerve as it passes through the small tunnel in the wrist. (The median nerve gives
sensation to the thumb, index, middle and half of the ring finger.) The result is
pain, numbness, tingling and loss of grip strength. The pain can range from a
mild tingling to severely crippling.
Women have a greater risk of developing CTS than men. This is due in part to
women having smaller wrists, which causes reduced tunnel space. CTS is also
more prevalent in pregnant women and more likely to worsen in the second half
of pregnancy as fluid retention can increase the pressure in the narrow, inflexible
space in the wrist.
To help relieve pain and swelling, freeze water in a small cup and use as an ice
massage by rubbing it on the palm side of the wrist for 3-5 minutes. Repeat 2-3
times a day. Rest, compression and elevation can also help decrease
inflammation and discomfort.
People with occupations requiring fast, repetitive movements or firm grips, with
little rest, have a higher likelihood of developing CTS. Some people may even
notice symptoms when performing hobbies such as playing piano, writing or
crocheting and knitting.
For those who work in an office, ergonomic workstation modifications can be
helpful:
Use correct posture by sitting up straight, elbows about 90°, and forearms
parallel with the desk.
Place computer monitors at eye level.
Use a headset or “hands free” option when on the phone to avoid a
prolonged head/neck posture that is not in the neutral position.
Avoid extended amounts of time with the wrist in flexion or extension by
using a wrist rest for the keyboard and mouse.
When performing repetitive motion tasks, be sure to incorporate rest periods.
You can set an alarm to go off every 20 minutes or so. Use your “micro break”
to:
Shake the fingers and hands out to increase blood flow and circulation to
the area to prevent swelling.
Stretch the neck by performing rotational movements, side-to side-
bending and chin tucks.
Bend the hand/wrist by using the opposite hand to stretch the fingers and
palm back in order to lengthen the forearm muscles.
Perform deep tissue release of the forearm and hand muscles by pinning
the tight muscle with your finger and moving it through its full range of
motion.
If your job requires repetitive firm grips, try to choose a tool that allows the wrist
to remain in a neutral position. Tool handles should not dig into the palm of the
hand or the wrist, and should not have sharp edges. Minimize vibration from
power tools by wearing shock-absorbing gloves. Avoid frigid work environments
and cold tools.
Obesity can also contribute to CTS due to fatty deposits or extra fluid that can
build up within the carpal tunnel. An anti-inflammatory diet with whole fruits and
vegetables includes the nutrients your body needs to help fight inflammation and
heal. Other anti-inflammatory measures include increasing omega-3 intake
(flax/chia seeds, fish oil) or nutrients such as ginger, Boswellia and turmeric.
Avoid foods high in saturated fats such as cheese and processed meats, as they
can slow down circulation. Limit sodium, which can cause fluid retention and
increase swelling. Sugar, alcohol and processed grains (especially those
containing gluten) can also increase inflammation, making the pain worse.
This is a partial list of preventative measures that can help those suffering from
CTS. Unfortunately, because there are many factors associated with CTS, there
is no “one size fits all” treatment or prevention.
It’s important to note, the median nerve starts in the neck, travels through the
shoulder, the muscular areas of the upper arm and forearm, and finally through
the carpal tunnel of the wrist. That means there are several places where the
median nerve can become compressed, aside from the wrist. In order to achieve
successful, long-lasting results, the compression of the nerve at any point along
its path must be relieved. A pinched nerve in the neck or shoulder can alter
median nerve function and exacerbate CTS symptoms.
Pathways to Healing specializes in holistic chiropractic care. Dr. Alyssa Musgrove
draws on a variety of techniques, including chiropractic, kinesiology, nutrition, food
allergy testing and lifestyle counseling to assist clients in achieving optimal health and
wellness in one setting. Pathways to Healing is located at 1022 Founders Row, Lake
Oconee Village, Greensboro. The office can be reached at 706-454-2040.