Carpal Tunnel Syndrome refers to nerve-like symptoms such as pain, tingling, burning or numbness in the hand. This has always been believed to originate from pressure on the Median Nerve as it runs through the wrist bones into the hand. However, this is only one explanation for such symptoms – and not even the most probable one.
The underlying causes and typical treatment for pressure on the Median Nerve within the wrist are discussed in this article but considering how easily these symptoms originate from the spine rather than the wrist, it warrants me sharing additional information to ensure that you do not ignore a highly likely source should you experience the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
In a previous article I explained how the spine is responsible for the majority of symptoms we feel in an arm or leg and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a prime example of just that – even if you’ve had no spinal symptoms at all.
An accurate classification of the condition (as to the origin and the appropriate treatment) requires a systematic assessment where we test how the symptoms respond to different situations which include local changes in position at the wrist as well as the spine. Without the mechanical assessment and appropriate classification we may incorrectly assume that the symptoms originate in the wrist and treatment thereof could result in months or years of frustration with nothing to show for it.
You can rule out the likelihood of your symptoms originating from the wrist by testing if any of these statements are true:
- Your pain extends into the forearm or upper arm in addition to just the hand
- Turning your head to the side or looking up/down affect the symptoms in your hand
- Your little finger also experiences symptoms at times
- Coughing or sneezing affects the symptoms in your hand
- Position changes from lying to sitting (without specific use of the affected hand) affect your symptoms
If you’ve had failed treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, be that conservative or surgical, where the spine was not explicitly ruled out as the most likely culprit from the very start, the above tests could be your confirmation that a mechanical assessment of your spine is warranted.
Your health and physical wellbeing should be a priority deserving of quality care. Make sure to discuss any concerns you may have directly with your preferred physiotherapist, so that you can receive the appropriate guidance for your unique situation.