Carpel Tunnel Syndrome
Carpel Tunnel Syndrome occurs from compression of the median nerve as it passes through the carpel tunnel in the wrist.
A patient in her mid thirties has been treated for carpel tunnel syndrome in both wrists for the past six months. She had responded well to osteopathic treatment along with a home-based stretching program, applied by her husband.
The patient suffered a relapse due to pregnancy, which causes increased fluid retention in the body. The patient was awakened multiple times during the night with burning sensations and pins and needles in both hands. This resulted in the patient only managing three to four hours sleep each night.
Treatment was intensified, decreasing symptoms slightly. Surgery, which leaves the patient incapacitated for six to eight weeks, was not considered due to pregnancy. Another problem with surgery can be the formation of scar tissue, which may lead to the return of the original symptoms.
The patient's obstetrician was consulted and the recommendation was to continue osteopathic care as well as a suggestion to wear roller skating wrist guards (to act as splints) at night.
The patient had an 80% reduction in symptoms over a two-week period and is now enjoying a full night's sleep.