Category: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
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Acupuncture and splinting helps carpal tunnel syndrome
Electroacupuncture and splinting versus splinting alone to treat carpal tunnel syndrome: a randomized controlled trial CMAJ September 6, 2016 vol. 188 no. 12 First published June 6, 2016, doi: 10.1503/cmaj.151003 Vincent C.H. Chung, PhD Abstract Background: The effectiveness of acupuncture for managing carpal tunnel syndrome is uncertain, particularly in patients already receiving conventional treatments (e.g.,…
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – How Do I If Know I Have It?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is VERY common. If fact, it affects 3-6% of the general population, and up to 50% of those afflicted have it in both hands! So what makes it so common? Here are several reasons: 1) ANATOMY: The wrist is made up of eight small “carpal” bones that allow the wrist to bend…
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Let’s Get the FACTS! (Part 3)
This month, we will conclude our three-part series on important facts regarding carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). CTS TREATMENT OPTIONS (continued): Aside from the carpal tunnel, there are several places where the median nerve can become compressed as it travels from the neck, down through the shoulder, through tight muscular areas of the upper arm and…
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American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons – Diagnosis & Treatment Guidelines For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
I am a nerd when it comes to this stuff. Here is a recently updated diagnosis and treatment guideline put out by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons on how to diagnose and treat carpal tunnel syndrome. If you want to download and read the “American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Management of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Evidence-Based…
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Let’s Get the FACTS! (Part 2)
Healthcare providers tend to agree that in non-emergency situations, patients with conditions like Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) should try non-surgical treatments before consulting with a surgeon. The “PRICE” concept, that is Protect, Rest, Ice, Compress, & Elevate can be applied to most injuries, including CTS, especially in the acute/inflammatory stage. However, many of these principles…
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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Let’s Get the FACTS! (Part 1)
If tingling/numbness primarily affects your thumb, index, third, and ring fingers, it very well could be carpal tunnel syndrome, or CTS. Chances are you’ve probably had this condition for months or even longer but it’s been more of a nuisance than a “major problem” and therefore, you probably haven’t “bothered” having it checked out. Let’s…
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What Exercises Can I do for CTS?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is the leading cause of numbness to the middle three fingers and thumb and affects millions of Americans each year. There are MANY potential causes of CTS, and these causes can be unclear or multi-factorial. We have discussed the importance of night splints and what chiropractic can do for CTS in…
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Non-Surgical Treatment Approaches for CTS
Non-surgical treatment approaches for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) aim to remove pressure on the median nerve where it’s pinched. In a recent review of the literature published on “passive modalities” (non-surgical treatment approaches) for CTS, researchers reviewed studies published between 1990 and 2015 for information on which non-surgical treatment approaches work best. Topping the list…
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When Should I Consider Surgery for CTS?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) affects 3% of the adults in the United States and is the most common of the “entrapment neuropathies” (pinched nerves in the arms or legs). Treatment for CTS is frequently delayed because the symptoms are usually mild at first and progress gradually. Because CTS symptoms may be more advanced by the…
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Why Should I Exercise For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is an EXTREMELY common condition that can affect anyone at any age. In fact, there’s a strong probability that up to 50% of the people reading this today have or have had symptoms of CTS at some point in time and 10% or more have been treated for it! We have…