Massage for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The phrase "carpal tunnel" is becoming all too common in Western culture. Carpal tunnel can be prevented through simple and soothing massage, easing the symptoms associated with carpal tunnel and increasing grip strength in the process.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the entrapment or compression of the median nerve in the wrist. This delicate channel is surrounded by eight carpus bones and the transverse ligament. The median nerve supplies sensation to the thumb and first three fingers of the hand.

Constant flexion and extension of the wrist causes irritation to the tendons, leading to inflammation and pressure on the nerve. This may due to a number of factors, including the misalignment of the carpal bones and wrist, acute trauma to the wrist, arthritic conditions, gout, pregnancy, neck and shoulder problems, and tumors. Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include burning or tingling sensations in the hands and fingers, weakness in the thumb and first three fingers, loss of grip strength, constant wrist pain, and muscle atrophy. Serious cases of carpal tunnel can be detrimental and very painful.

The Touch Research institute at the University of Miami, School of Medicine reports that "Carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms are lessened following massage therapy." The study examined sixteen subjects suffering fro the beginning stages of carpal tunnel; all worked at jobs involving heavy word processing or computer work. Subjects were then assigned to a control group or massage therapy group. Those in the latter group received one massage per week on the injured arm for four weeks. They were also instructed in simple self-massage, which they performed each evening.

Results proved that massage indeed alleviated symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome. "Functional activity also improved as noted in reduced pain and increased grip strength in the massage therapy group, both immediately after the first and last massage therapy sessions and by the end of the study," according to the study. "Finally, the massage therapy group reported lower anxiety and depressed mood levels both immediately after the first and last sessions and by the end of the study."

Further, a Chinese study discovered the same results in 2006. "Combined treatment of massage and [an acupuncture technique called] pricking collateral blood therapy (PCBT) showed a [positive] effect upon mild carpal tunnel syndrome."

For more information on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, please contact Pacific College at (800) 729-0941 or visit www.PacificCollege.edu ###