Stuck in the Carpal Tunnel

Repetitive strain injury, better known as Carpal Tunnel syndrome is a debilitating compression of the median nerve and inflammation of the flexor tendons. The condition can cause extreme pain and numbness.  In some cases, the syndrome has no specific cause. Work that requires you to grip something repeatedly or hold your fingers or wrists in an abnormal position may contribute to the syndrome in individuals with a predisposition to develop the condition. Repeated use of vibrational tools, excessive time in cold environments, pregnancy, vitamin B6 deficiency and repetitive movements, all limit circulation to tired muscles, which in turn can contribute to the development of this condition.

The key to avoiding repetitive strain injuries lies in prevention.  There are a number of simple exercises and precautions which, when utilized properly, can significantly reduce the probability of developing Carpal Tunnel.

We are now seeing traditional medical treatment being replaced by alternative therapies such as specialized massage with amazing results. Posture plays a major role because the nerve that supplies the hand starts in the neck then travels down the front of the shoulder, down the arm, then into the fingers. Any abnormal posture in these areas could strain the nerve. A proper understanding of the role of posture combined with simple exercises is the key to preventing/relieving this condition.

Garry Adkins, NCTMB is an instructor of Myomassology, instructor of Anatomy at Irene’s Myomassology Institute, member of the U.S. Olympic Committee Sports Medicine Society, International Association of Healthcare Practitioners, Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals, past president of the Association of Michigan Myomassologists Inc., and featured speaker at the Humanistic Medicine Procedure Lecture, Wayne State Medical School, 2004, and the Michigan Chiropractic Society 2005 Fall Convention. For more information please call (248) 350-1400 or view www.IMIeducation.com