Osteopathic Manual Therapy for Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
In today's digital age, where keyboards and smartphones are ubiquitous, the prevalence of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) has become increasingly common. This condition, characterized by numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and wrist, can significantly impact daily activities and diminish overall quality of life. While traditional treatments often focus on managing symptoms, osteopathy offers a holistic approach that targets the root cause of CTS, providing lasting relief and restoring functionality to the affected area.
What Causes Carpel Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm of the hand, becomes compressed or irritated as it passes through the carpal tunnel—a narrow passageway in the wrist. This compression can result from a variety of factors, including repetitive movements, injury, or underlying medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes. Over time, the pressure on the median nerve can lead to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers. One main cause of carpel tunnel is major injuries to the shoulder, arm, or hand in the past that have not been addressed, such as broken bones or large impact style injuries.
Traditional Treatments vs. Osteopathic Approach
Traditional treatments for CTS often involve splinting, medication, or surgery to alleviate symptoms or release pressure on the median nerve. While these methods may provide temporary relief, they often fail to address the underlying dysfunctions that contribute to the condition. Osteopathy, on the other hand, takes a more comprehensive approach, focusing on identifying and treating the root cause of CTS.
Can Osteopathy Help Treat Carpel Tunnel Syndrome?
Osteopathy offers a range of gentle, hands-on techniques designed to relieve pressure on the median nerve, improve wrist mobility, and restore balance to the surrounding structures. These techniques may include:
Soft Tissue Manipulation: By releasing tension in the muscles and connective tissues surrounding the wrist and forearm, osteopathic practitioners can alleviate pressure on the median nerve and reduce symptoms of CTS.
Joint Mobilization: Gentle manipulation of the wrist and hand joints can help restore proper alignment and mobility, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Nerve Mobilization: Specific techniques aimed at mobilizing the median nerve can help alleviate compression and improve nerve function, providing relief from symptoms of CTS.
Postural Influences: Osteopaths also address contributing factors from other parts of the body that could be causing biomechanical imbalances, which may exacerbate symptoms of CTS. By correcting these issues, they can help prevent recurrence and promote long-term relief.
Experience Relief with Osteopathy!
Located in Langford, BC our clinic has an Osteopathic Practitioner with experience treating Carpel Tunnel Syndrome. Click here to book in.