Does Laser Therapy Work for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or CTS, is a medical condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed. The medial nerve runs through the carpal tunnel of the wrist — a narrow passage of bones and ligaments. The median nerve that runs through the carpal tunnel controls sensation and movement in the thumb and first three fingers.
Carpal tunnel syndrome can cause painful symptoms, including tingling, numbness, and sharp or aching pain in the fingers and hand. This pain can also extend up the arm. Many people who have CTS find that their symptoms are worse at night and can become so painful that it's hard to sleep. Over time, CTS can progress and cause weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grasp objects and perform small motor tasks.
In many cases, CTS is associated with repetitive hand movements, such as using tools or typing. Wrist injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you've been diagnosed with CTS or are concerned that you may be showing signs of CTS, laser therapy may be a good fit for your needs. Here, we'll look at how laser therapy can help relieve carpal tunnel pain.
Traditional Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Traditional treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome can sometimes work well to control symptoms.
Traditional treatments for CTS include:
- Wrist splinting: Some splints are worn during the day while performing activities that aggravate CTS, while others are worn at night to keep the wrist in a neutral position.
- Medications: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and prescription medications like oral and injected steroids can help to reduce inflammation and swelling, relieving pain.
- Activity modification: Making ergonomic adjustments (such as modifying workstations) and taking frequent breaks may help relieve pain.
- Physical therapy: Strengthening exercises and ultrasound therapy, under the supervision of a physical therapist, can help relieve CTS symptoms.
- Surgery: There are two types of surgery for carpal tunnel syndrome: open surgery and endoscopic surgery. Open surgery involves an incision in the palm to cut the ligament pressing on the median nerve. In contrast, endoscopic surgery is less invasive, using a tiny camera and instruments to release the ligament.
- Acupuncture: While the evidence for acupuncture varies, some patients with CTS find relief with regular treatments.
- Chiropractic care: Some people living with CTS find that chiropractic adjustments can help to relieve pressure on the median nerve, offering short-term pain relief.
How Does Laser Therapy Work?
Laser therapy for CTS works by utilizing laser energy in the areas where you're experiencing symptoms. The laser interacts with your body's cells in the nerves, ligaments, and tendons, promoting the release of endorphins (natural pain relievers) and the production of adenosine triphosphate, or ATP (a molecule that delivers energy to your cells). Laser therapy also helps to widen the blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the areas of your hand(s) and wrist(s) affected by CTS. Laser therapy treatment can also boost the speed at which your body regenerates tissue while reducing pain, inflammation, and swelling.
Effectiveness of Laser Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Research shows that laser therapy for hands is an effective treatment that can improve grip, lessen pain levels, and increase hand functionality. Research on the exact mechanisms of laser therapy is ongoing, and researchers believe that the pain relief effects may lower levels of chemicals that transmit pain to the brain. Research also suggests lasers increase circulation in the treatment area, leading to a more efficient healing process.
Who Is the Ideal Patient for Laser Therapy?
Ideal candidates for low-level laser therapy for CTS are similar to those who are ideal candidates for laser therapy for injuries. This type of treatment is suitable for those with mild to moderate symptoms interested in relieving swelling, bruising, pain, and inflammation. Laser therapy may not be the right fit for patients who have certain conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Pregnancy
- Blood clotting disorders
Laser therapy is also not a good fit for those who are under 18 years old.
Advantages of Using Laser Therapy
Laser therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome treatment can make finding the relief you need easier. Unlike surgery, laser therapy is performed in-office during regular appointments. Since cold laser therapy is a quick procedure, you won't have to withstand your symptoms during a long wait time, as may be the case for surgery.
You may find that laser therapy quickly releases your compressed nerve, helping to restore wrist and hand mobility while reducing or eliminating CTS symptoms. The treatment is painless and requires no downtime.
How Long Does Laser Therapy for Pain Last?
If you're new to the idea of laser treatment for CTS, you're likely wondering how long you'll be able to enjoy the benefits of your laser treatment. Chronic conditions like CTS typically respond best when treatment sessions are performed two to three times per week. Appointments usually last about ten minutes, making scheduling your laser therapy treatment sessions simple.
If you're experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, we understand how difficult it can be to perform everyday tasks. Get started with laser therapy treatment by finding an Aspen Laser provider near you.