CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most common hand conditions. It is caused by pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel of the wrist. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway surrounded by bones and ligaments on the palm side of the hand. When the median nerve is compressed.
Symptoms
- Wrist pain that may extends to elbows or shoulder
- Tingling, numbness or weakness in all finger except the little finger
- Reduced finger coordination and movement
- Increased pain at night
- Muscular weakness.
Causes
- Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the median nerve.
- The median nerve runs from the forearm through a passageway in the wrist to the hand, known as the carpal tunnel. The median nerve provides sensation to the palm side of the thumb and all of the fingers except the little finger. This nerve also provides signals to move the muscles around the base of the thumb. This movement is known as motor function.
- Anything that squeezes or irritates the median nerve in the carpal tunnel space may lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. A wrist fracture can narrow the carpal tunnel and irritate the nerve. This also may occur due to swelling and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis or other diseases.
- Many times, there is no single cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. Or the cause may not be known. It may be that a combination of risk factors contributes to the development of the condition.
Risk factors for CTS
- Wrist fracture
- Overuse of wrist joint when using computer or playing piano, etc.
- Some diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, thyroid issues, kidney problems, etc.
Ayurvedic therapies recommended for the condition,
Abhyanga – Ayurvedic massage with medicated oils help relieve pain, numbness and tingling sensation, while also providing a soothing effect.
Swedana – Fomentation or sweating using medicated vapours is recommended for managing the condition with Vata and Kapha involved.
Patra Pinda Sweda and Shashtika Shali Pinda Sweda are also advised for managing Vata symptoms like pain and numbness.
Churna Pinda Sweda – Fomentation using boluses of herbal powders are performed when Kapha symptoms like stiffness and swelling are predominant.
Dhara – Different types of the therapy which include Kashaya Dhara, Taila Dhara Organic Essential Oils and Dhanyamala Dhara are advised for Vata and Kapha predominant symptoms.
Greeva Vasti – The process of retaining medicated oils on the cervical spine is recommended for soothing the nerves whose branches control the upper limb including hands, wrist and fingers.