Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common plague in the modern office cubical. Carpal tunnel is caused by the compression of nerves in the wrist. The beginning of the syndrome results in hand or arm pain and numbness and tingling sensations felt along the wrist, the thumb, and the fingers. People in the advance stages of the syndrome may experience hand weakness. All but the most extreme cases are typically treated by hand braces or intervention exercises. A new pilot study is trying a new approach, a massage therapy that benefits patients.
A study published in The Cochrane Library focused on the two traditional approaches to mild carpal tunnel syndrome: exercise and hand braces. The group found limited, low-quality evidence to support that exercise and immobilization interventions are beneficial to those who suffer from carpal tunnel. Though the group cautions that until more high-quality, randomized, controlled trials are undertaken, the decision to provide this type of non-surgical intervention to people with carpal is a decision to be made in concert with your physician.
Taking an alternative approach, a study published in Rheumatology International found that specialized, manual massage-like therapy can improve the quality of life of sufferers of carpal tunnel. The technique is speculated to work by reducing the forearm tissue adhesion (pain inducing) and by increasing wrist mobility. Though the study is only a pilot, it may be promising to those who want to do all they can before resorting to surgical intervention.
The only thing that is clear about carpal tunnel is that it is much easier to prevent than to treat it. Experts tend to agree that replacing a few of your computer accessories (mice, keyboard) with ergonomic versions will make a significant difference. Also, make sure to take breaks between extended computer use, occasionally stretching the wrists and fingers.
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