Diagnosis Explanation:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is compressed at the wrist, leading to pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger. It is commonly caused by repetitive hand movements, prolonged wrist flexion, arthritis, pregnancy, or nerve disorders.

Symptoms:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring finger.
• Wrist pain that worsens at night or with prolonged hand use.
• Weak grip strength and difficulty holding objects.
• Hand clumsiness, frequent dropping of items.

Specific Work Modifications for {job description}:

• If your job involves typing or writing: Use an ergonomic keyboard and mouse, and take frequent breaks to stretch your hands.
• If your job requires manual labor: Use anti-vibration gloves and avoid excessive wrist flexion or gripping.
• If your job is desk-based: Keep wrists neutral (not bent up or down), adjust desk height, and use a wrist rest if needed.
• Avoid: Prolonged typing without breaks, forceful gripping, and repetitive wrist flexion.

Specific Activity Modifications for {hobbies}:

• If you play an instrument or craft: Take breaks and use wrist splints if needed.
• If you play sports: Avoid repetitive wrist motions (tennis, golf, weightlifting).
• If you knit, garden, or cook: Use larger-handled tools and take breaks.
• Avoid: Prolonged gripping, repetitive wrist flexion, and vibrating tools.

Recommended Supplements:

• Vitamin B6 – 50-100mg daily to support nerve health.
• Magnesium – 300-400mg daily to relax muscles and improve circulation.
• Alpha-Lipoic Acid – 600mg daily to reduce nerve pain.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids – 1000mg daily to reduce inflammation.
• Turmeric (Curcumin) – 500-1000mg daily for pain relief.

Recommended Nutrition and Hydration:

• Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods (salmon, leafy greens, turmeric, berries, nuts) to reduce swelling.
• Increase Lean Protein (chicken, fish, tofu, eggs) to support nerve function.
• Consume Hydrating Foods (cucumber, watermelon, citrus) to maintain tissue hydration.
• Limit Processed Foods & Sugars to prevent inflammation.
• Hydration: Drink 8-10 cups of water daily to support nerve and muscle function.

Home Exercise Prescription (Rehabilitation for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome)

Early Phase (0-2 Weeks, Reducing Pain & Nerve Compression):

• Wrist Splinting – Wear a neutral wrist splint at night to reduce pressure on the median nerve.
• Nerve Gliding Exercises – Extend arm, bend wrist backward, then flex fingers, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Wrist Flexor Stretch – Extend arm, gently pull fingers back, hold 20 seconds, 3x/day.
• Wrist Extensor Stretch – Extend arm, pull fingers downward, hold 20 seconds, 3x/day.

Strengthening Phase (2-6 Weeks, Improving Hand Strength & Endurance):

• Grip Strengthening (Soft Ball Squeeze) – Squeeze a soft ball 5 seconds, repeat 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Finger Extension (Rubber Band Exercise) – Place rubber band around fingers, open against resistance, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Wrist Curls (Light Resistance) – Hold a light weight, curl wrist up and down, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Advanced Phase (6+ Weeks, Preventing Recurrence & Maintaining Function):

• Finger-to-Thumb Opposition – Touch thumb to each fingertip, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Wrist Circles – Slowly rotate wrists in both directions, 10 reps, 2x/day.
• Forearm Pronation/Supination (Light Resistance) – Rotate forearm palm-up and palm-down, 10 reps, 2x/day.

Helpful Books:

1. The Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Book: Preventing & Treating CTS – Kate Montgomery.
2. Reversing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Naturally – Emily Kane, ND.

Contact the Key West orthopedic clinic or reach out to Dr. Jason Pirozzolo.