Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the compression of the median nerve at the wrist, which may result in numbness, tingling, weakness, or muscle atrophy in the hand and fingers. CTS is common in people who perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist, such as typing, manual labor, weight lifting or grasping. When the wrist is poorly positioned, the median nerve becomes compressed in the carpal tunnel. The median nerve supplies sensation to the first three fingers and thumb-side of the ring finger. It also supplies movement to part of the hand. The nerve enters the hand between the wrist bones (called the carpal bones) and the tough membrane that holds the bones together (the transverse carpal ligament). This space is called the carpal tunnel. Since the passageway is rigid, any swelling in this area can cause compression of the nerve (this is also called entrapment of the nerve).

Symptoms:

  • Numbness, tingling or burning in the hand, forearm and/or elbow
  • Weakness in the hand or grip strength
  • Atrophy of the hand muscles

Healthy Living Tips For CTS.

Periodic checkups or supportive care. Supporting proper functioning of the wrist, elbow and shoulder with periodic treatments minimizes the stresses to joints and associated muscles and nerves.

Practice proper posture, lifting and sitting ergonomics. Practicing proper posture, lifting techniques and ergonomics are essential in reducing strain to the carpal tunnel.

Home exercises and stretches. Specific stretches and exercises to maintain flexibility and stability of the carpal tunnel are important to decrease stress to the median nerve.

Questions?

Do you have a question about your current situation that you'd like to ask? Send an email with your question to: questions@optimalhealthfcc.com

 

Contact info

Ph: (515) 964-9966
802 SE Oralabor Road
Suite 121
Ankeny, IA 50021

Location

South of Super Wal-Mart next to Subway and Greenberg's Jewelers

See the Contact Us page for a map to our office

Office Hours

M / Tu / Th: 8:00am-12:00pm, 2:00pm-6:00pm
W: 7:00am-11:00am
Call ahead for availability.

active release technique
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