Treatment options for carpal tunnel syndrome

Every year around this time I spend a day trimming trees and hedges to then spend another day or two crashed out on the couch not wanting to move my arms while I ice my wrists. I do not know how people who suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome deal with this pain. It is miserable and makes it difficult to function.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a painful condition caused by entrapment of the nerves going through the wrist in to the hand. If not treated it can worsen and lead to nerve damage over time. Several conditions are known to aggravate or cause it including diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and pregnancy but for most people it happens due to repetitive movements such as typing, cooking, and writing. Those who also experience repetitive vibrations such as those who do construction work may develop carpal tunnel syndrome.

Carpal tunnel syndrome consists of pain, numbness, and tingling mainly in the hand at the thumb and the next 2 ½ fingers. That said pain has been reported for some up in to the forearm, elbow, and even up in to the shoulder. The sensation may also take over the entire hand and not just the fingers we think of as typical carpal tunnel syndrome. Besides the sensation changes to the hand, the bigger issue is that over time nerve damage can occur and become permanent leading to loss of strength. Some tests can be done by the doctor in the office to identify it is probably carpal tunnel syndrome. Electrodiagnostic tests are the diagnostic standard for definitive diagnosis, ruling out other possible causes of the issues, and determining the extent of nerve damage.

Current standard treatment options consist of rest, splints, avoidance of activities that trigger the problem and anti-inflammatory medications. These conservative measures can reduce symptoms and improve carpal tunnel syndrome in up to 80% of people. Local injections to the wrist are usually the next step and this does help many people who do not respond to conservative treatment. If these measures do not work, the next step is usually surgery.

Before checking in to surgery for treatment since it has its own inherent risks including that it doesn’t work for everyone, osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) may be an option. Some small studies have been performed that show improvement in not just symptoms but also the electrodiagnostic tests with the performance of OMT. These techniques are used to relieve pressure at the carpal tunnel, stretch soft tissue, and alleviate restrictions throughout the lower arm and hand. This improves flow of blood and lymphatics and overall nerve function.

So if you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, OMT may be able to help you.