Kathryn Merrow  

Natural therapies for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome was our topic today on http://www.CarpalTunnelRadio.com on Thursday July 2, 2009.  We also talked about sleeping positions that can cause or help carpal tunnel symptoms and how to find a massage therapist who can help you.

Some of the benefits of natural therapies for CTS include:  no surgery, no anesthesia, no recovery, no recurrence, no side effects.  Natural therapies include ice, heat, Vitamin B6 and other supplements, natural anti-inflammatories, massage and possibly night braces to prevent curling your wrists.

Sleeping on your back can help relieve symptoms and we talked about the best type of pillow to use.

Every massage therapist is different:  different personalities, training, skill levels, etc.  We talked about 7 questions that you can ask your potential therapist to determine whether they are the person you might like to work with to help relieve your symptoms.

Our sponsor today was http://www.PainReliefErgonomics.com  They help you work in comfort at your desk or computer.  You know, it's amazing how much difference a small change in position can make in your comfort.

We also talked about the possibility of discomfort with massage.  Yes, there may be some and the reason is simple.  Tight muscles aren't used to being pressed into.  It may be just a little uncomfortable, or feel like "good pain" (your body likes it--that means it's the appropriate place!) or it may be quite intense.  Sometimes discomfort during or after therapeutic massage is unavoidable, but a good therapist will work within your tolerance level. 

Always give your massage therapist feedback.  He or she wants to know how you are feeling, and they also want you to have carpal tunnel pain relief.