Myotherapy as an Alternative Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Relief
While traditional treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) like wrist splints, corticosteroids, and surgery are common, many people are turning to alternative therapies such as myotherapy for relief. Myotherapy offers a non-invasive option that focuses on muscle health and can provide significant benefits for those suffering from CTS. In this article, we'll explore how Myotherapy can help alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms and why it’s worth considering.
What is Myotherapy?
Myotherapy is a physical therapy discipline that targets muscle pain and dysfunction by addressing the muscles, joints, and nerves. It involves the use of various techniques such as massage, stretching, dry needling, and trigger point therapy to improve muscle flexibility, reduce inflammation, and enhance nerve function. Myotherapy is designed to help patients recover from injuries, improve mobility, and alleviate chronic pain, making it an ideal treatment option for conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
How Can Myotherapy Help with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is often caused or exacerbated by tight or imbalanced muscles in the forearm, wrist, and hand. These muscles can place additional pressure on the median nerve, worsening the symptoms of CTS. Myotherapy specifically targets these muscle imbalances, helping to reduce tension and improve circulation. Here are a few ways Myotherapy can provide relief for CTS.
1. Reducing Muscle Tension
Myotherapists focus on releasing tension in the muscles surrounding the wrist and forearm, which can help decrease pressure on the carpal tunnel and reduce nerve compression. By loosening tight muscles, Myotherapy allows for better movement and function, giving the median nerve room to move freely without irritation.
2. Improving Posture and Ergonomics
Poor posture and repetitive strain from activities such as typing or manual labour can contribute to carpal tunnel symptoms. A Myotherapist can assess your posture and identify the areas that need improvement. They may recommend exercises or lifestyle adjustments to enhance ergonomics, which can significantly reduce the strain on your wrists.
3. Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger points are areas of tightness or ‘knots’ in the muscles that can refer pain to other parts of the body. For example, trigger points in the neck and shoulders can aggravate carpal tunnel symptoms. Myotherapy uses targeted pressure to release these points, providing relief from both local and referred pain.
4. Dry Needling
Dry needling is a technique used by myotherapists to treat muscle pain and tightness. Thin needles are inserted into the muscle to release tension and promote healing. This can be particularly effective for addressing chronic pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, as it helps improve blood flow and reduce inflammation around the affected nerve.
5. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
Myotherapy doesn’t just treat symptoms; it aims to prevent recurrence. A Myotherapist will typically prescribe a series of stretches and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and reduce the likelihood of CTS returning. By strengthening the muscles around the wrist and forearm, you can better support the carpal tunnel and reduce the risk of nerve compression in the future.
Should I choose Myotherapy over non-invasive surgery?
Although Myotherapy offers a non-invasive approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome by addressing muscle tension and posture, micro-invasive surgery provides a more direct and long-lasting solution. Myotherapy may require ongoing treatments and lifestyle adjustments, whereas micro-invasive surgery effectively targets the root cause of carpal tunnel syndrome by relieving pressure on the median nerve. It offers quicker, more definitive relief with minimal downtime and fewer long-term risks. Though every treatment has its place, for those seeking a faster, more permanent resolution, micro-invasive surgery is often a superior choice.
Book a consultation at the Carpal Tunnel Institute today to explore your non-invasive treatment options.