Causes and Risk Factors
The condition arises from increased pressure on the median nerve. Common factors include:
Repetitive Motion: Frequent, repetitive hand or wrist movements.
Wrist Positioning: Prolonged flexion or extension of the wrists.
Health Conditions: Diabetes, thyroid issues, or rheumatoid arthritis.
Pregnancy: Fluid retention can lead to increased pressure.
Treatments and Management
Splinting: Wearing a wrist splint, particularly at night, to keep the wrist straight.
Lifestyle Changes: Adjusting ergonomics at work and reducing repetitive activities.
Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain or steroid injections to reduce swelling.
Surgery: A minor surgical procedure to cut the ligament causing the pressure, providing long-term relief.
Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Bowen Therapy as a treatment option for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Yes, Bowen Therapy can help relieve carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) by using gentle, rolling moves on soft tissues to reduce nerve compression in the wrist, forearm, and neck. It works by releasing muscle tension, improving circulation, and relaxing the nervous system, with many finding significant relief in 3–6 sessions.
How Bowen Therapy Helps Carpal Tunnel
Reduces Nerve Compression: It specifically targets the fascia and muscles around the wrist and arm to create more space for the compressed median nerve.
Releases Muscle Tension: It addresses tightness not only in the wrist but also in the shoulders, neck, and back, which can contribute to CTS symptoms.
Improves Circulation: The movements encourage better blood flow to the affected area, encouraging faster healing.
Calms the Nervous System: By encouraging the body to move from a "fight or flight" state to a "rest and repair" state, it promotes holistic healing.
Bowen Therapy offers a pain-free, non-invasive alternative or complement to conventional treatments, helping many avoid surgery. Many people experience reduced pain, numbness, and tingling within 3-6 sessions. Bowen Therapy is a whole-body approach that addresses overall muscular tension, which can also relieve associated issues like aching shoulders or sore elbows. While standard medical treatments often include splinting, cortisone injections, or surgery, Bowen Therapy is often sought by those looking for a natural alternative with no side effects. Small-scale clinical observations have shown promising results, such as one group where four out of six patients saw symptom reduction, with three achieving complete resolution.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Success Stories
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME. I treated a young lady using the Bowen basic treatment and added an advanced wrist procedure. Within the next week she called to tell me that the pain disappeared shortly after leaving my office and her wrist did not bother her at all. I treated her one more time and I have seen her at the theatre since the treatments and she remains pain free.
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME - Geoff, 67. I am a recently retired cabinet maker, having worked at my trade for over 50 years. For the last 20 years I have had problems with my shoulders as a result of using power tools and to sleep at night I have had to prop myself up with 3 pillows to ease the shoulder pain. Then for the last 5 years I have also had trouble with my hands and wrists – tingling, cold fingers, numbness and pain. It was diagnosed as carpal tunnel syndrome. For this I have worn gloves and wrist supports to help ease the pain. I couldn’t pick up small things (nails, screws, and even a $2 coin) and was even having trouble driving the car and doing small household jobs. Then I saw a small ad in our local newspaper suggesting Bowen Therapy as a way of easing carpal tunnel syndrome. This was a simple muscle manipulation and exercise regime and after just one session I could notice a change. After each of the following 5 sessions there were more changes. My symptoms have been improved by say 80% and hopefully if I continue my exercises and perhaps have a few more treatments later, this may improve even more. In the meantime, I have a life back – much less pain and inconvenience. I’m back to driving and working. I am very grateful to my therapist who was able to help me so much.
KNEE PAIN / WRIST PAIN - Harry, 44. After seven months of physical therapy for my knee and wrist (carpal tunnel syndrome), I was still unable to play tennis. Two different doctors recommended surgery for the knee which remained extremely swollen. After only two Bowen sessions I was back to playing tennis without any knee pain. My carpal tunnel was gone after the first session and has not returned.
It is recommended to consult with a qualified Bowen Therapist to create a personalized plan.
