Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) refers to the pain, numbness and tingling in the thumb and three fingers, that comes about when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed. The pain can radiate up the forearm and is often worse at night.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a progressive condition, so it is important to recognize the early symptoms and take action. Left untreated, there can be a gradual loss of sensation in the hands which become weak. This can lead to a loss of grip so that items are dropped from the hands, plus a tendency towards clumsiness that can make it hard to do activities that require fine and precise movements.

CTS is often included under the umbrella term of Repetitive Strain Injury, or Overuse Syndrome.

It is important to have carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed by your GP, as it is a progressive condition. As yet there has, unfortunately, been no research into using the Alexander Technique to help with this condition. However, many people including some of my own pupils, have reported experiencing an improvement in the condition when incorporating the AT during their activities. This helps them to them modify the way they use their hands and wrists, so they avoid compressing the median nerve.

For more information, you may read my article on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.