Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Can a professional massage for carpal tunnel help solve the issue? Short answer is, yes. But do not expect it to be a long lasting solution to the problem.

What is it?

The compression of the median nerve as it traverses the carpal tunnel of the anterior part of the wrist causes inflammation. Usual symptoms are numbness, tingling in the fingers (thumb, index, and middle), difficulties in holding heavy items, pain.

What’s causing it?

Repetitive movements (i.e. using the mouse) and compression (i.e. the wrist standing for hours on an office desk) usually cause it.

What can be considered an effective massage for carpal tunnel?

Of course, massaging and gently mobilizing the wrist will be two of the primary techniques, but not the only ones. The median nerve originates from the neck region and runs down through the shoulder and the arm. Chances are that along the pathway there will be several points of accumulated tension that contribute to the overall issue.

Several techniques can work on those points: deep tissue massage, myofascial manipulation, and active release stretching. The subjective situation of the client determines the effectiveness of a massage for carpal tunnel; in general, the longer the syndrome has been left untreated, the more difficult it will be to solve it.

Which professionals can help to solve the issue?

Please keep in mind that a massage therapist is not a miracle worker, and clients should not expect a solution to the problem in a snap of fingers. Other healthcare professionals should treat carpal tunnel syndrome in association with a massage therapist, such as orthopedists, sport doctors, physiotherapists, and, in very serious cases, surgeons.

Bonus tip: In my 22 years of practice I have seen several times great results achieved using acupuncture and acupressure. To the point that I decided to integrate acupressure techniques in my massage for carpal tunnel protocol.

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Pubmed link to an interesting article on this topic: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome