Myofascial release of carpal tunnel syndrome

Abstract

Current treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome may be ineffective or associated with complications or recurrence. In the case reported here, a myofascial release by the physician combined with the patient's self-stretch reduced pain and numbness and improved electromyographic results. The manipulative approach releases the transverse carpal ligament,and "opens"or dilates the canal. The patient stretches the wrist, digits, and thumb, including myofascial components. An aggressive, conservative approach lessens the need for surgery in mild to moderate cases. Studies with magnetic resonance imaging may be helpful to document canal size before and after treatment.

In vitro modeling of repetitive motion injury and myofascial release

“…Injuries, such as repetitive motion strain, result in abnormal changes to tissue texture affecting passive and active resistance to motion which in turn leads to compromised joint articulation, discomfort, pain and reduced range of motion. Improvement in these sign and symptoms are often seen post MFR treatment (Sucher 1993; Andersson et al 1999; Hou et al 2002; Fernandez de las Penas et al 2005; Sucher et al 2005). …”

“…MFR when used in conjunction with conventional treatment, is effective to provide immediate relief of pain and to reduce tissue tenderness (Hou et al 2002; Fernandez de las Penas et al 2005). Additional post-treatment clinical outcomes include attenuation of edema and inflammation, reduction of analgesic use, improved muscle recovery post trauma and increased range of motion in affected joints (Sucher 1993; Andersson et al 1999; Sucher et al 2005). Despite these reports for clinical efficacy, no cellular or molecular mechanisms conclusively have been shown to be responsible.…”

Comparison of an indirect tri-planar myofascial release (MFR) technique and a hot pack for increasing range of motion

“…Few studies have examined the effectiveness of myofascial release (MFR) techniques on the direct parameters of patient outcomes (Hanten, 1994;Barnes, 1997;Bucher, 1993Bucher, , 1994Weiselfish-Giammatteo and Kain, 2005). Additionally, experimental research does not exist that compares the effectiveness of MFR outcomes versus any modality intervention.…”

In vitro modeling of repetitive motion strain and manual medicine treatments: Potential roles for pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines

“…Manual medicine treatments (MMTs) are therapeutic applications of manually guided forces to improve not only structural imbalances but also physiologic function and to support homeostasis that has been altered by somatic dysfunction, physical trauma, inflammation and infection (Andersson et al, 1999;Sucher et al, 2005;Sucher, 1993;Jones, 2004;Meltzer et al, 2007). Many MMTs used clinically by osteopaths, chiropractors, physical therapists, massage therapists and Rolfers share similar-and at times identical-biophysical maneuvers despite dissimilar nomenclature.…”