Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is no longer just an ailment of people who work at computers. With an alarming rise in cases among younger individuals and those using other devices extensively, understanding how to effectively alleviate its symptoms is crucial. Did you know that almost 50% of people with this condition find their daily activities severely hindered?
Here are the most effective treatments, with a special emphasis on the manual therapy utilised by our physiotherapists and chiropractors in Brighton, helping you regain control over your life. Read on to explore the causes and symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, why manual therapy is effective, and how you can incorporate preventive measures into your daily routine.
Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Causes and Symptoms
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, becomes compressed at the wrist. This leads to symptoms such as numbness, tingling and pain in the hand and fingers, often affecting the thumb, index, middle fingers and part of the ring finger.
Common Causes of CTS
- Repetitive Movements: activities that involve repetitive hand motions or prolonged wrist flexion, such as typing or using hand tools, increase pressure on the median nerve.
- Underlying Health Conditions: conditions like diabetes, arthritis and thyroid issues can contribute to the development of CTS.
- Pregnancy: hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling and increased pressure in the carpal tunnel.
- Genetic Factors: some individuals may be genetically predisposed to develop carpal tunnel syndrome due to anatomical variations in the wrist.
The Impact of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
CTS can significantly impact one’s quality of life, affecting both professional and personal activities. According to recent studies, nearly 65% of individuals with moderate to severe symptoms consider seeking medical intervention. It’s essential to recognise the signs early to avoid long-term damage to the median nerve, which may require surgical interventions if left untreated.
Why Manual Therapy Works: An Overview
Recent research highlights manual therapy, a hands-on treatment approach used by Sundial physiotherapists and chiropractors, as one of the most effective non-surgical options for alleviating the pain and discomfort associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Here’s why manual therapy can be transformative.
- Reduces Inflammation: manual therapy techniques can help improve blood circulation to the affected area, reducing swelling and inflammation.
- Improves Mobility: targeted physiotherapy can restore mobility to the wrist and hand, allowing for better functionality during daily activities.
- Decreases Pain: techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation and joint mobilisations can relieve pressure on the median nerve, effectively reducing pain levels.
- Re-education of Movement Patterns: manual therapy helps educate patients about proper ergonomics, which are critical for preventing future incidences of CTS.
Integrating Manual Therapy into Your Treatment Plan
When considering manual therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it is essential to work closely with a physiotherapist. Here’s how we approach this.
- Initial Assessment: Khee and Nate, our physiotherapists will conduct a thorough assessment to understand the severity of your condition, identify contributing factors and tailor a treatment plan accordingly.
- Treatment Sessions: treatment typically involves a series of sessions focusing on soft tissue massage, stretching, laser therapy, acupuncture needling and targeted exercises aimed at improving wrist strength and flexibility.
- Home Exercises: your therapist will guide you through exercises that you can do at home to complement your treatment and reinforce recovery processes.
Our chiropractors can play a part too. Sometimes the bones in the wrist or neck can seize up and make Carpal Tunnel symptoms worse and prevent recovery. Gently unlocking these stiff joints improves recovery.
Evidence Supporting Manual Therapy
Studies show that manual therapy can be significantly more effective than traditional physical therapy modalities such as ultrasound or electrical stimulation. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy found that patients receiving manual therapy had a higher satisfaction and recovery rate compared to those utilising conventional methods.
Other Treatment Options for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While manual therapy is impactful, it is important to be aware of other treatment options available for CTS.
- Splinting: wearing a wrist splint, especially at night, can help keep the wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the median nerve.
- Medication: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help mitigate the pain and inflammation associated with CTS; however, this should be discussed with a healthcare professional before starting.
- Steroid Injections: for some, corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation. However, they are generally not a long-term solution.
- Surgery: if non-surgical treatments do not alleviate symptoms, surgical intervention such as carpal tunnel release may be necessary to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Prevention Strategies: Ensuring Long-Term Health
Preventive measures are critical in managing and reducing the likelihood of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, especially for individuals whose daily routines involve repetitive wrist movements. Here are some effective strategies:
- Ergonomic Adjustments: evaluate and adjust your workstation to promote better ergonomics. Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse to reduce strain on the wrists. Ask us for advice on how to set up a workstation or look at our YouTube video.
- Regular Breaks: practice the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away to ease eye strain and give your wrists a brief rest.
- Wrist Exercises: incorporate wrist and hand exercises into your daily routine to improve flexibility and strength. Task-specific exercises beneficial to your work cycle will enhance muscle endurance. Here are some exercises to help you.
- Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: stay active and eat a balanced diet to manage conditions such as diabetes and obesity, which can contribute to CTS.
Conclusion: Taking Charge of Your Health
Understanding how to manage Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and exploring effective treatments like manual therapy is crucial for regaining control of your life. By implementing preventative strategies and working with a qualified physiotherapist, you stand a good chance of alleviating symptoms and improving your overall quality of life.
Now that you understand more about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and the contributing methods for addressing it, the next step is vital. Make an appointment today to consult our experienced team at Sundial Clinics for personalised treatment and recovery strategies tailored just for you. Embrace your journey towards relief and a healthier lifestyle today!