Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Steps To Prevent Hand And Wrist Pain
by Dr. Rita Louise
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is an inflammatory disorder where the tissues around the median nerve swell. The carpel tunnel is an open space in the wrist through which nine tendons and a large nerve (the median nerve) travel through and provide movement and feeling to the hand. It is formed by the wrist bones on one side and a band of strong ligaments on the other.
Based on the structure of the wrist bones and the inflexibility of the ligament, when the protective lining of the tendons swell or when the ligament that forms the roof of the carpel tunnel thickens, it puts pressure on the median nerve. This causes numbness, tingling and a burning sensation in the thumb and first three fingers (not the pinky) of the hand.
Other symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include a loss of sensation in the hand, a reduction in finger mobility, a sense of stiffness and weakness in the hand with increasing pain at night, difficulty gripping or making a fist and a tendency to drop things. There may even be the feeling that the hand is swollen, even though there is no visible sign of swelling.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common occupational disorder, accounting for over ½ of all work injuries reported in the U.S. There are a number of things that can cause the tissues in and around the wrist to become swollen and inflamed. The most prevalent reason is the overuse of the wrist when performing repetitive tasks such as working on a computer or jobs that require you to repeatedly bend the wrist or grasp the hand.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can also be brought on by physical injury such as a broken bone in the wrist or hormonal issues associated with pregnancy and menopause. Disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and hypothyroidism can also cause inflammation in the carpal tunnel and bring about this syndrome.
Recommendations For Wellness
The use if isometrics and stretching exercises can help to strengthen the hand and wrist muscles and reduce your risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
If your job requires you to do repetitive tasks, make sure you warm up your wrist and hand before beginning and take frequent breaks to avoid overexertion.
At work, try changing the way you are performing repetitive tasks and activities. Talk to your employer about ergonomically correct equipment that will help to put less stress on your hands and wrists.
Use ice liberally to help shrink inflamed tissues. Alternating between warm and cold water soaks have also been reported as being beneficial.
Massage and myofascial release work have been show to improve the symptoms of individuals with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Yucca's natural steroid properties have been known to reduce inflammation and obstructions of the joints.
White willow bark is effective in relieving pain and reducing inflammation.
Natures Sunshine’s JNT-A and IF-C are herbal combinations that are designed to alleviate pain, inflammation and swelling in the joints and connective tissues.
For temporary relief of pain and inflammation caused by tendon or muscle strains, try a homeopathic remedy that is specific for sprains & pulls.
© Copyright Body, Mind & SoulHealer 2005. All rights reserved.
Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Rita Louise, Ph.D. is the author of the books Avoiding the Cosmic 2x4 and The Power Within. It is her unique gift as a medical intuitive and clairvoyant that illuminates and enlivens her work. Let Dr. Louise help you bring health healing and wholeness back into your life. Medical Intuition & Energy Medicine Certification training classes are now forming. Visit www.soulhealer.com or call (972) 475-3393 for more information.
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