Introduction

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome falls into the category of neurological conditions labeled nerve entrapment disorders and is by far the most well-known of these disorders. As the name suggests, these conditions occur when a nerve is trapped or constricted between other tissues of the body causing irritation and dysfunction of the nerve.

Anatomy

The carpal tunnel rests within the underside of the wrist. It is a tunnel, or passage, through which the Median nerve travels on its way to energize and animate the hand and fingers. In addition to the median nerve, the carpal tunnel contains the nine tendons of the forearm muscles that are responsible for bending and flexing of the fingers and thumb. There are also arteries and lymphatic vessels that furnish circulation to the hand located within the tunnel. Wrist bones form the bottom and sides of the tunnel, while the top is shaped by the transverse carpal ligament, a strong band of connective tissue. The diameter of the carpal tunnel is about the same as the index finger making the carpal tunnel a jam-packed space. The flexor tendons, arteries and median nerve are intended to glide smoothly past each other during wrist and finger movement.

If the tendon size increases from inflammation or hypertrophy (growth), or if the carpal tunnel size decreases due to  an improper use of the carpal bones, the median nerve can become constricted or entrapped within the carpal tunnel. The early symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome commonly include pain, numbness, paraesthesia (pins and needles) and tingling in the fingers and hands especially the thumb and adjacent two fingers.  These symptoms are especially noticeable in the night and often wake people from their sleep as the individual has to sit up in bed and shake-out and/or rub the hands in order decrease these unpleasant feelings.  The hands can also feel inept, weak and fatigue easily with activity. Over time, the ability to hold small objects using the thumb and fingers can be affected severely and if left untreated, can lead to total dysfunction of the hand.

Some prevailing causes and associated conditions are:

    * repetitive and forceful grasping with the hands

    * prolonged computer usage especially with poor wrist position

    * activities that require repetitive bending of the wrist

    * broken or dislocated bones in the wrist which produce swelling

    * arthritis, especially the rheumatoid type

    * thyroid gland imbalance

    * sugar diabetes

    * hormonal changes associated with menopause or pregnancy

Though any of the causes and conditions listed can be partly responsible for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, often the actual root cannot be found. Nevertheless, those who work with equipment that vibrates and/or perform their jobs in extreme temperatures often develop carpal tunnel symptoms.  Even household activities as simple as repetitive wringing clothes by hand can help cause this syndrome. By far the most significant reason for the increase of people suffering with CTS is the continuous rise in the use of computers. The repetitive motions of typing on the keyboard and moving the mouse over extended periods of time is a primary indicator for many people with CTS.

Treatment

Competent diagnosis and treatment is vital to relieving the painful and debilitating symptoms of CTS. Your Camarillo Chiropractor is highly skilled in the diagnosis and managment of CTS. Chiropractors are well-trained in treating CTS.  Treatment by chiropractor can include ultrasound or low level laser to help reduce inflammation, electro therapy to strengthen weak muscles of the forearm, soft tissue massage to stretch contracted tissues and, of course, adjustments of the dysfunctional joints of the wrist. Your chiropractor may suggest that you wear a splint or support, particularly at night, to aid in the decompression of the carpal tunnel. Your Camarillo Chiropractor will also give you specific exercises to stretch and/or strengthen muscles of the forearm and hand.

Technorati Tags: camarillo chiropractor, carpal tunnel pain, carpal tunnel treatment, repetitive stress