What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
?
Carpal tunnel syndrome causes numbness, tingling and pain in the thumb, index
and middle finger that often worsens at night. This condition can affect one, or
both hands and it is sometimes accompanied by weakness in the thumb.
It is a painful, progressive, condition caused by compression of the median
nerve (which runs from the forearm into the hand) in the wrist. It results from
pressure on this nerve where it passes from the wrist into the hand, through the
carpal tunnel.
As the median nerve carries the sensory messages from the thumb, index and
middle finger, as well as the motor stimuli to the muscles of the hand, any
damage to it causes sensory disturbances, in particular the numbness, tingling
and weakness.
Carpal tunnel syndrome usually starts gradually, with pain, weakness, or
numbness in the hand and wrist, radiating up the arm.
Who Is Affected by Carpal tunnel syndrome?
Anyone doing repetitive work with their hands, in particular those using computer
keyboards.
What Are the Symptoms of Carpal tunnel syndrome?
Numbness, tingling and pain in the thumb, index and middle finger. As
symptoms worsen, people may find it difficult to close the hand into a fist,
grasp small objects, or perform other manual tasks with their hands. They may
also feel increased tingling during the day, and a marked decrease in the
strength of their grip.
Allopathic Treatment Options
Carpal tunnel syndrome often disappears without treatment. Resting the affected
hand and using a splint, avoiding activities that may aggravate the condition,
may alleviate the symptoms. If the symptoms persist, an injection of a
corticosteroid drug may be injected under the ligament in the wrist. Ultimately,
if all else fails, surgery may be performed to decrease the pressure on the
nerve.
Complementary Treatment Options
Shiatsu has been found to be extremely beneficial in the treatment of
carpal tunnel syndrome, assisting the muscles in the forearm to relax while
creating a feeling of wellbeing in the receiver. Shiatsu practitioners can work
with conditions of both acute and chronic natures.
Vitamin
- Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) can be helpful for reducing numbness and tingling and support the nervous system.
- Vitamin B6 can also reduce numbness and tingling.
- Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for reducing inflammation.
Herbal
- Ginger, tumeric and bromelain (in pineapple) reduce inflammation.
Pro-Holistic provides Shiatsu,
Healing Chi Kung therapy, on-site massage, Stress Mangement courses, and Stress Mangement workshops. We also provide tuition in Chi Kung,
Tai Chi, Neijia,
and self defence.