How to Use ART for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Millions suffer at the hands (literally) of carpal tunnel. Carpal tunnel syndrome is the result of pressure on the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand through the carpal tunnel (a narrow tunnel of bone and ligaments at the base of the hand). Physical therapy, medication and surgery are options for those with carpal tunnel, but one method gaining popularity is Active Release Technique®, or ART.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Free the trapped median nerve through specific stretching exercises designed to target the wrist and forearm. Stretch your right arm out to the side, palm up. Bend your fingers toward the floor. Stretch your neck to the right. Hold for 8 seconds. Repeat with left arm.

2. Place your right arm by your side. Twist arm toward your body with palm facing up. Bend your head to the left. Hold for 8 seconds. Repeat with left arm. Step 1 and 2 should be repeated 4 to 6 times.

3. Have a physician, therapist or chiropractor trained in ART locate scar tissue or adhesions that have formed along the forearm. Quite often, scar tissue results from the ensuing inflammation when tendons and ligaments are restricted. ART focuses on restoring soft tissue rather than just on the nerve entrapment site.

4. Allow the doctor to apply tension to the site of the adhesion using his thumbs while you shorten the muscle by contraction. The doctor will manipulate the soft tissue as you move through a range of motion, such as extending the elbow or moving the wrist.

5. Repeat the ART method along the entire length of the forearm, if needed. Results are usually felt within a few sessions. Continue stretching exercises to ensure the median nerve does not become entrapped again.

Tips & Warnings

• See a physician to rule out other possible problems and to get an accurate diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome before starting ART therapy. ART cannot address torn ligaments or tendons or broken bones.
• Do not continue the same repetitive motion that resulted in carpal tunnel syndrome after ART has been used to correct the problem. Consult with your doctor or therapist about changes you can make in the activity that led to your condition to prevent recurrence.

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