Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Myofascial Release

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that creates pain, numbness and tingling in the wrists, arms, and hands. It is created by pressure on the median nerve which passes through the carpal tunnel in the wrist to the hand.

The causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) can vary from repetitive overuse of the wrist and hands, the anatomy of the wrist or the presence of underlying health problems such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. CTS usually affects the thumb, forefinger and the middle finger of the hand.

Many times, CTS is a chronic condition that is treated with splints, hot and cold compresses and ultimately surgery. Unfortunately, the results often are not optimal with any of these treatments.

I suffered from CTS approximately 10 years ago. The pain was so bad it would wake me up at night. I went to a neurologist and was diagnosed with CTS. I was told to wear a splint at night. That didn’t help much, but when I had a myofascial release session that week, I got relief.

Myofascial release helps to elongate the muscles and release restrictions in the fascia which are causing nerve impingement. CTS can be created by inflammation or restrictions in the hand, wrist, forearms, elbows or the shoulder. Once these entrapments are released the nerves can glide smoothly again.

My own CTS luckily has not returned.