Dr. François Bouchard, chiropractor, D.C. shares an opinion on carpal tunnel syndrome...
On the Passeport Santé website, we can read that carpal tunnel syndrome usually manifests itself by numbness and tingling in the fingers, and by a loss of muscle strength in the affected wrist and hand.
The symptoms result from compression of the median nerve in the wrist. In the wrist, the median nerve and the flexor tendons of the fingers pass through a "tunnel" called the carpal tunnel. This tunnel is relatively small. Any condition that reduces this space, such as inflammation, causes compression of the median nerve.
Some movements of the fingers, especially the thumb, become less controlled or not controlled at all. Sensations in the hand may also be altered.
Carpal tunnel syndrome affects approximately 11% of women and 3.5% of men. It tends to appear either in the early 50s or after the age of 75. Symptoms are mild and transient at first, but become more severe over time.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: causes of the disease
The origin of carpal tunnel syndrome is often multifactorial. The risk is higher in workers exposed to the following situations
repetitive movements of the wrist and forearm for prolonged periods ;
movements that require significant force in the hand
awkward postures for the hand;
handling vibrating tools.
At this time, it is not known whether working at a computer may contribute to the problem. Indeed, studies conducted to date have not established a clear link between regular keyboard use and carpal tunnel syndrome. However, frequent mouse use (more than 20 hours per week) is thought to increase the risk, according to one study.
Other possible causes include wrist injuries, wrist arthritis and neurological damage as a result of diabetes.
Hormonal fluctuations experienced during menopause, pregnancy or a state of hypothyroidism create an environment conducive to carpal tunnel syndrome. During pregnancy, for example, fluid retention adds pressure on the median nerve.
OPINION OF DR. FRANÇOIS BOUCHARD, CHIROPRACTOR, D.C.
Every year, I treat several patients living with this debilitating syndrome, sometimes in one wrist, sometimes in both wrists. And what I notice most of the time is that the cause is of fascial origin.
Often, there are important fascial adhesions at the cervicothoracic junction, where we find the famous "buffalo hump".
The fascia in this area is part of a single fascial line (a fascial meridian called "The Front and Back Arm Lines") that runs through the wrists and fingers.
By treating the fascia in this area of the back and neck, the symptoms of carpal tunnel are often reduced or even completely eliminated.
So good news! There is hope. With a few liberating maneuvers and home exercises, when this fascia relaxes, life in the wrists and hands resumes!
In thoughts of Health,
Dr. François Bouchard, chiropractor, D.C.
Cap Violet Clinic