Another Possible Cause of CTS

Image via Wikipedia

Check out this illustration of the hand. Note the common sheath for the tendons, especially how it runs down the carpal tunnel. Its the big fat structure in light blue.

As we've seen throughout the body, sheaths have been known to stiffen when they are not stretched regularly.

Could this sheath become stiff enough to cause the pressure on the nerve that characterizes carpal tunnel syndrome?

If so, manipulating this sheath may release the pressure on the carpal nerve.

Its also conceivable that stiffness in the forearm could be interfering with the normal positioning of this nerve. So, the wrist is flexed, the range of motion available to this nerve is reduced, resulting in the pain.

A complex problem with many factors. One thing is for sure. Slicing the ligament is not the last word in treating this painful condition.

Are Wrist Braces for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome a Good Idea?

Image via Wikipedia

Some thoughts on the topic.

Personally, I believe immobility helps in the short run but costs you big in the long run. Loss of range of motion is the circulatory problems at the root of carpal tunnel syndrome. Immobilization can only exacerbate the problem. It is not a real solution.

You are much better off practicing Qi Gong or Tai Chi. Get the blood moving into the muscles involved and get the muscles to relax. Then do gentle stretching and massage.

Current Thinking on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Note the dominant medical view of carpal tunnel syndrome on WebMD's blog. It dismisses massage as a solution.

I really feel that most people who try massage fail with it because the typical approaches are not comprehensive enough.

Things I've read advise a DAILY massage, which means to me that the underlying cause is not being treated.

If the tissue around a muscle is impairing proper circulation, the sarcomeres within a muscle will run out of ATP the next time the muscle must do work of significant duration.

None of the advice from mainline physicians given seems to address the true nature of the muscular problem.