Massage Tutorial: Carpal tunnel syndrome (myofascial release)

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Got clients with tingling/numbness in the first few digits? We're probably dealing with compression of the median nerve. Even if they've had a formal diagnosis of carpal tunnel syndrome, this broad myofascial work should be gentle enough to apply to most clients.

My main piece of advice is to avoid focusing too much on the wrist. If there is nerve impingement and inflammation there, it's not going to be too happy about deep friction. Instead, see about calming down the wrist and finger flexors. If you can defuse that bomb, sometimes the wrist will follow.

While you're at it, work with the neck, shoulder, and hand. Follow the median nerve all the way up and down, warming and soothing the tissue.

As with all neurological problems, keep track of your client's symptoms, and back off if any particular strategies seem to be aggravating the tingling/numbness. Remember that it took your client many years to get into this situation, so it may take a number of sessions!

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