Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that occurs when the median nerve—which runs from the forearm into the palm—becomes compressed as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway in the wrist. This condition is often associated with repetitive hand movements or wrist positions that increase pressure within the tunnel, leading to discomfort and dysfunction in the hand and wrist. Let’s delve deeper into the carpal tunnel syndrome definition, its symptoms, and how it differs from similar conditions.
Disclaimer: The content on this site and my posts are for educational and informational purposes only and not meant as medical advice. It is not intended as medical advice or to replace a relationship with a qualified healthcare professional. There is absolutely no assurance that any statement contained or cited in an article touching on medical matters is true, correct, precise, or up-to-date. Please consult a clinician that is familiar with your care, if you have specific questions for your own care.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome meaning can be summed up as a neurological condition caused by pressure on the median nerve. This pressure can result from swelling, inflammation, or anatomical changes within the carpal tunnel. CTS is not just an isolated condition; it often has links to systemic health issues, making it essential to understand its broader implications.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
Common carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms include:
Numbness or tingling: Often felt in the thumb, index, and middle fingers, especially during the night.
Pain: Ranging from mild discomfort to severe pain in the hand or wrist.
Weakness: Difficulty gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks.
Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of further complications.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Causes
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the median nerve is compressed due to:
Repetitive motions: Typing, sewing, or other repetitive tasks can lead to overuse of the wrist.
Anatomical factors: Narrow carpal tunnels or wrist injuries can increase susceptibility.
Health conditions: Diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and even pregnancy can contribute to CTS development.
Interestingly, research also explores potential connections between carpal tunnel syndrome and heart disease. While direct causation isn’t established, the systemic inflammation associated with heart disease may play a role in exacerbating nerve-related conditions.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs Arthritis vs Tendonitis
Understanding the differences between carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, and tendonitis is key:
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs. Arthritis: While CTS is nerve-related, arthritis involves inflammation of the joints. Arthritis pain often affects the entire wrist or hand, while CTS pain is localized to the thumb, index, and middle fingers.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome vs. Tendonitis: Tendonitis refers to inflammation of the tendons, often from overuse, and typically presents with pain during movement. CTS, on the other hand, includes nerve symptoms like tingling and numbness.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis
Diagnosing CTS typically involves a physical examination, medical history review, and specific tests like nerve conduction studies or imaging.
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Treatment options vary depending on severity but may include:
1. Gentle Stretching
Range of Motion movements guided by a physical therapist will ensure you continue to maintain your mobility without hurting the muscles
2. Heat and Cold Therapy
Applying heat to sore areas is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ease muscle tension and stiffness and therefore relieving the pressure on the nerve involved in CTS. Heat increases blood flow, relaxes muscles, and reduces pain signals. Apply a moist heating pad for 15–20 minutes. Avoid excessive heat to prevent burns. NOTE that moist heating pads are the most effective. My favorite brands are Thermophore and Thermipaq
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Cold therapy reduces inflammation and soothes painful joints
3. Postural Awareness and Form
Modifying activities so that it does not further increase symptoms is very important
4. Movement
Consulting a movement specialist, like a physical therapist, will ensure that you are doing the proper movements that will help your shoulder rather than hurt it
5. Acupuncture or Acupressure
Acupuncture and acupressure are ancient techniques rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that provide natural, effective pain relief. Both methods work by stimulating specific points along energy pathways called meridians, helping to restore balance and promote healing in the body. Both therapies are safe, drug-free solutions that can complement conventional treatments, offering a holistic way to manage pain and support overall well-being. At Releaseology, I am certified in acupressure points and utilize this knowledge and these points in your treatment along with the dolphin neurostim MPS (see below)
Cupping Therapy Treatment uses suction to lift soft tissue, encouraging better blood flow and breaking up fascial adhesions that can restrict movement. It’s excellent for addressing tissues that feel adhered or stuck to your bones or other muscles. Cupping is included in all Releaseology sessions at no extra cost!
7. Dry Needling
Dry needling is based on the theory that trigger points (areas of muscle tension) can cause pain and other problems in the body. The insertion of the needle into the muscle works to break up the restrictions found in the muscle and relieve them. The act of insertion of the dry needle into the body, also signals healing factors into the affected area and promotes balance in the body. The overall aim of dry needling is to relieve pain and improve function, but many patients see not only improvements in muscle tension, pain and range of motion but also improved circulation and reduction in inflammation. Read more about it on my blog about dry needling. Dry needling is included in any of my Releaseology sessions, but can also be booked as a stand alone modality.
If you're not close to Tempe, find a dry needling practitioner near you here
The Dolphin Neurostim MPS uses microstimulation with DC current, which is the current that your heart and nervous system use. For pain relief, it is used stimulate acupressure points to decrease pain, decrease anxiety, decrease digestive pain, break up scar tissue and improve vagus nerve function. The results have been quite amazing, thus far! Read more about the Dolphin Neurostim MPS on my page here. The dolphin is included in any of my Releaseology sessions. If you don't live in Arizona, find a Dolphin MPS practitioner here
Disclaimer: The content on this site and my posts are for educational and informational purposes only and not meant as medical advice. It is not intended as medical advice or to replace a relationship with a qualified healthcare professional. There is absolutely no assurance that any statement contained or cited in an article touching on medical matters is true, correct, precise, or up-to-date. Please consult a clinician that is familiar with your care, if you have specific questions for your own care.
NOTE: In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to release the compressed nerve.
The Releaseology Difference in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
At Releaseology, I specialize in finding the root causes of conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. My one-on-one, hands-on techniques focus on addressing nerve compression, improving circulation, and relieving tension in the surrounding muscles and tissues. With my personalized and holistic approach, you’ll experience relief that goes beyond temporary fixes.
If you’re struggling with carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms or wondering if your wrist pain might be linked to another condition, I'm here to help. Book your session today to take the first step toward lasting relief and improved function.
These are my three services that include an assessment and evaluation of your pain. If you have specific questions for your care, you can always e-mail me at sara@releaseology.com or text 480.712.0699 or book a free virtual consult
Medical Disclaimer
The content on this site and my posts are for educational and informational purposes only and not meant as medical advice. It is not intended as medical advice or to replace a relationship with a qualified healthcare professional. There is absolutely no assurance that any statement contained or cited in an article touching on medical matters is true, correct, precise, or up-to-date. Please consult a clinician that is familiar with your care, if you have specific questions for your own care.
Essential Oils for Pain Relief
More from Releaseology
Don't forget to check out other resources on my site! You can book a session with me here, find a list of conditions I treat here, find more about me here, learn how to regulate your own vagus nerve and nervous system here and read more on my blog here. Lastly, follow me on my social channels: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok!
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