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Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a painful condition that hinders hand strength, grip, and mobility. It is a prevalent peripheral nerve disorder caused by repetitive hand use. Fortunately, there is a natural treatment option available, serving as an alternative to pain medications or surgery. This treatment is known as Class 4 laser therapy. Let’s explore what it is and how laser therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome works.
How Does Carpal Tunnel Start?
CTS typically occurs due to repetitive hand movements and overuse injuries, commonly observed in activities involving continuous typing, hands-on work like kneading dough or using a screwdriver, and hobbies like gaming, knitting, or smartphone usage.
However, there are other factors that can also contribute to CTS, such as:
Obesity or excess body weight
Pre-existing medical conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or hypothyroidism
Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause
Genetic predisposition or family history of CTS
Wrist fractures or injuries
Certain anatomical factors, such as a narrow carpal tunnel or wrist joint abnormalities
What Are the Common Treatment Options for CTS?
Wrist splinting: Wearing a splint to keep the wrist in a neutral position, especially at night.
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroids to reduce pain and inflammation.
Lifestyle modifications: Ergonomic changes, taking breaks, and avoiding aggravating activities.
Occupational therapy: Exercises and techniques to improve symptoms and strengthen the hand and wrist.
Carpal tunnel release surgery: Surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the median nerve.
Alternative therapies: Hand exercises, acupuncture, and cold or hot therapy for symptom relief.
Class 4 laser therapy presents a non-surgical and non-pharmacological approach for managing pain and treating carpal tunnel syndrome and its associated symptoms. This innovative therapy provides an alternative method to alleviate discomfort without the need for invasive procedures or medication.
How Does Laser Therapy for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Work?
Class 4 laser therapy is a powerful tool that effectively addresses the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) and promotes nerve regeneration. Also known as high power laser therapy, high level laser therapy, red light therapy, or photobiomodulation therapy, it offers several benefits for CTS-affected hands and wrists:
Inflammation reduction
Stimulation of tissue healing
Photobiomodulation is particularly beneficial for CTS and it aids in nerve regeneration. By stimulating the body’s natural processes for nerve healing and regeneration, Class 4 laser therapy emits light wavelengths that penetrate deep into the body’s tissues. This encourages the production of nerve growth factors, expediting the body’s nerve healing ability which is typically slow. As the nerves heal, communication between the affected body part and the brain improves, leading to a reduction in associated symptoms of disconnection.
Is Class 4 Laser Therapy Really Effective?
Extensive research supports the effectiveness of Class 4 laser therapy in alleviating symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). A notable study published in the Journal of the Faculty of Medicine Baghdad investigated the impact of Class 4 laser therapy compared to a sham laser treatment for individuals with mild to moderate CTS. The findings revealed that Class 4 laser therapy yielded remarkable results, including a substantial reduction in pain by an impressive 75%. Moreover, the study highlighted additional benefits attributed to laser therapy in the management of CTS. These compelling results underscore the potential of Class 4 laser therapy as a viable treatment option for individuals suffering from CTS symptoms.