Pinpoint your Pain

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common problem of the wrists and hands. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by irritation of the median nerve, which runs through the wrist, the carpal tunnel and into the hand to supply sensation to the thumb, index finger, middle finger and half of the ring finger. The median nerve also supplies sensation to the thenar muscles (muscles of the thumb). The carpal tunnel is an opening into the hand made up of the bones of the wrist on the bottom and the transverse carpal ligament on top. Carpal Tunnel Syndrom is caused by any activity that puts repeated pressure on the median nerve. Such conditions can include repetitive actions of the hands and wrists such as typing, arthritis, a wrist fracture that heals abnormally, or anything that puts excessive pressure on the median nerve.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can include burning pain, numbness and tingling of the hand that often runs up the arm to the neck, clumsiness and weakness in the affected hand and pain and numbness often worse at night. Another important sign is deterioration of the muscles that move the thumb. This is potentially serious and a medical professional should be consulted immediately. If left untreated, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can progress to the point of limiting thumb opposition and movement, which can result in not being able to perform simple tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or holding a pencil.
People at risk for developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include computer users, people with occupations that include repetitive wrist motions, pregnant women (due to fluid retention and joint swelling), people of 50 years of age or older, and smokers (due to decreased circulation). Prevention of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome includes taking breaks from repetitive tasks, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the wrists and hands, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, and by practicing proper posture at the computer and proper wrist alignment while doing computer work.
Self Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in its early stages includes rest, wearing a simple brace, taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the wrists and hands, keeping proper wrist alignment while doing computer work, practicing proper posture at the computer, and adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement. In addition, massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste product, and applying ice to the region for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times a day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain can be helpful. For more complicated cases anti-inflammatory therapy, electric stimulation or ultrasound as administered by a physical therapist, as well as chiropractic care, can all be effective ways of dealing with CTS.

DeQuervain's Disease or DeQuervain's Tenosynovitis is a condition of the thumb, wrist and sometimes the forearm. DeQuervain's Disease is caused by the inflamation of the tenosynovium (the lubricated tissue lining the tunnel on the side of the wrists just above the thumb) and the two tendons of the thumb side of the wrist. Any action that leads to repeated friction of the tendons in the thier sheath can cause DeQuervain's Disease. Repetitive actions such as pushing the space bar with one thumb, grasping, pinching, squeezing and wringing can lead to inflamation in the tenosynovium. Other conditions, such as an injury in this area that leaves scar tissue, which increases friction in the tendons, or rheumatoid arthritis can also cause DeQuervain's Disease.
Symptoms of DeQuervain's Disease can include soreness on the thumb side of the forearm, which can spread up or down the forearm. Occasionally the friction in the tendons may cause the tendons to squeak as they try to move through the constricted tunnel. This condition is called crepitus.
People at risk for developing DeQuervain's Disease include computer users who repeatedly press the space bar with one thumb, people who grip their pen tightly with their thumb while writing, musicians, construction workers who hammer often, and fly fishermen who repeatedly cast their reel.
Prevention of DeQuervain's Disease includes taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the wrists and hands, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, practicing proper wrist alignment while doing computer work, practicing proper posture at the computer, and avoiding tapping the space bar with only one thumb (try switching thumbs ).
Self Treatment of DeQuervain's Disease includes rest, decreasing or eliminating repetitive tasks, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the wrists and hands, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, practicing proper wrist alignment while doing computer work, practicing proper posture at the computer, massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste products, applying ice to the region for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times a day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain, and wearing a wrist brace. With more severe cases professional medical care is warranted and can include anti-inflammatory therapy, steriod injections and/or physical therapy, including electric stimulation or ultrasound as recommended by your physician.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a condition affecting the shoulder, arm and hand characterized by pain, weakness and numbness in the these areas. TOS occurs when the 5 major nerves and 2 main arteries that leave the neck become compressed between the two scalene muscles in the front of the neck and the first rib. TOS is caused by repetitive actions with the arms held overhead or extended forward, which can result in irratation and compression in this area. In addition, Forward Head Posture, slouching or dropping the shoulders forward can cause tension in the muscles at the side of the neck, which constricts arteries and nerves and contributes to TOS. Other causes of TOS include an extra first rib or an old clavicle fracture, since these both limit space in this region. Violent injuries that tear the scalene muscles of the neck, such as whiplash, can lead to a buildup of scar tissue, which also restricts space around the nerves and arteries, leading to TOS.
Symptoms of TOS can include pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, swelling, fatigue, or coldness in arms and hands. Waking up with a "dead arm" is also characteristic of TOS. TOS is often difficult to diagnose since its symptoms mimic those of other conditions, such as Herniated Cervical Disk, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, or bursitis of the shoulder.
People at risk for developing TOS include people whose occupations involve repetitive actions with the arms extended, such as computer users, waiters and painters.
Prevention of TOS includes taking frequent breaks from repetitive tasks, doing stretching and strengthening ergorcises for the back, neck and shoulders, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, practicing proper posture at the computer, and by limiting the amount of time spent with arms extended or doing repetitive tasks.
Self Treatment for TOS includes rest, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the back, neck and shoulders, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, and using proper posture at the computer. Depending on the cause, physical therapy, chiropractic care, or medication may be warrented.

Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is a condition of the shoulder joint caused by rubbing or pinching action (impingement) when the tendons that glide through the subacromial space get squeezed between the head of the humerous (top of the arm) and the acromion (tip of the shoulder). Shoulder Impingement Syndrome is caused by any repetitive action that irritates the shoulder bursa. Bursa are the lubricated sacs of tissue that reduce friction and protect muscles and tendons when they move against each other. Working with the arms overhead, excessive throwing motions, and poor posture can all lead to irritation of the shoulder bursa and tendons. Poor alignment of the shoulder joint, as well as bone spurs in the area can cause Shoulder Impingement Syndrome since they limit the motion of the arm and decrease circulation.
Symptoms of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome can include pain of the shoulder area, sharp pain when lifting the arm to the side or in front of the body, pain and generalized soreness after repeated movement or prolonged activity.
People at risk for developing Shoulder Impingement Syndrome include atheletes involved in "handed" sports such as baseball pitchers and tennis players, as well as computer users who repeatedly reach forward to their keyboard or mouse. People who practice poor posture at the computer (sitting with rounded shoulders pinches the tendons that run through the shoulder region), swimmers, window washers, waiters, painters or anyone else who performs activities involving reaching over the head are also susceptible to Shoulder Impingement Syndrome.
Prevention of Shoulder Impingement Syndrome includes adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, doing ergocises to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the shoulders, taking regular breaks from computer work, and practicing proper posture at the computer.
Self Treatment for Shoulder Impingement Syndrome includes rest, stretching and strengthening ergocises for the shoulders, back, and neck, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing overhead activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, applying ice for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times per day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain, massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste products. Many doctors prescribe electric stimulation or ultrasound as administered by a physical therapist and specific rehabilitative exercises. Professional massage therapy and chiropractic manipulation for the correction of poor alignment and restoring muscular balance can be quite effective.

Tennis Elbow or Lateral Epicondylitis is a condition characterized by inflamation of the common extensor tendon, the tendon that begins just under the elbow on the forearm side of the arm and then branches out into the wrist extensors. Tennis Elbow is caused by repetitive actions and stress placed on the common extensor tendon. Hitting a backhand in tennis is an example of this kind of stress. Additionally, the constant stress of holding your wrists at an awkward angle while working at a computer places continuous stress on the tendon, which can lead to Tennis Elbow.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow can include increased pain in the elbow after activities involving the wrist and hand, stiffness in the elbow joint, difficulty straightening the elbow, and pain when the wrist extensor muscles (top of the forearm) are stretched.
People at risk for developing Tennis Elbow include people with occupations that involve repetitive use of the forearm muscles such as computer users, tennis players, musicians, people who carry and grip objects for prolonged periods of time.
Prevention of Tennis Elbow includes doing ergocises to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the arm and elbow, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing painful arm activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, taking regular breaks from mouse and computer use, and avoiding prolonged activity such as typing or gripping heavy objects. When related to sports activities, modification of you swing or throwing motions can be benificial. Consult a coach or certified athletic trainer.
Self Treatment of Tennis Elbow includes rest, ergocises to stretch and strengthen the muscles of the arm and elbow, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing painful arm activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, applying ice for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times per day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain, massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste products and using a brace to reduce elbow stress. Professional treatment such as electric stimulation or ultrasound as administered by a physical therapist may be needed if self care is not effective.

Cervical Disc Herniation is a condition in which the gelatinous material within a cervical disc escapes past the fiberous outer coating that holds it in place and presses on the nerves exiting from the spine in the cervical, or neck, region. Discs are the gelatinous material in between the vertibrae that act as shock absorbers. Trauma, such as car accidents, is a leading cause of these herniations. Another common contributing factor is leaning forward and sitting in Forward Head Posture, which places pressure on the front of the cervical discs and pushes the fluid in the disc to the rear. Repeated pressure of this kind can eventually stress the disc to the point of bulging. Further stress can lead to a herniated or ruptured disc. However, Cervical Disc Herniation can also result from excessive tilting of the head to the back, left or right. Either condition, bulging or herniated, can put pressure on nearby nerve roots, which causes pain, tingling and numbness. Because many nerves originating in the neck run all the way down the arms, a herniated cervical disc can cause pain, tingling and numbness down the arms and even into the hands.
Symptoms of Cervical Disc Herniation can include pain in the neck and shoulder, as well as numbness and tingling down the arm into the hands. In addition weakness of the arm and hand muscles can be associated with more severe cases. When weakness is felt in the arms see a professional health care provider immediately.
People at risk for developing a herniated cervical disc include people who continually sit in an awkward posture with their head tilted too far forward (Forward Head Posture), backward, or to either side.
Prevention of Cervical Disc Herniation includes rest, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the neck and back, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing painful arm activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, and avoiding Forward Head Posture or any other awkward head posture.
Self Treatment for Cervical Disc Herniation includes rest, stretching and strengthening ergocises for the neck and back, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing painful arm activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, and avoiding Forward Head Posture or any other awkward head posture. In addition, chiropractic care can be effective.

Neck Pain is a general term that often describes symptoms of sprains and strains of the neck, excess muscle tension or myalgia, wry neck or stiff neck, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Cervical Disc Herniation.
Symptoms of Neck Pain can include pain, stiffness, decreased range of motion,tingling and numbness anywhere from the neck to the hand, skin changes of the neck, arm, and hand, and weakness of the muscles of the neck, arm, and hand.
People at risk for Neck Pain include computer users who practice poor posture at the computer, people who do repetitive overhead activities such as painting and filing, computer users who type in an awkward posture, telephone users who continuously tilt their head to one side, and people who sleep with too many pillows or too fluffy a pillow.
Prevention of Neck Pain includes adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the neck, back, and shoulders, taking regular breaks from the computer, practicing proper posture at the computer, and avoiding excessive overhead activities.
Self Treatment of Neck Pain includes rest, doing stretching and strengthening ergocises for the neck, back, and shoulders, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing painful arm activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, avoiding Forward Head Posture or any other awkward head posture, applying ice for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times per day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain, and massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste products. Professional treatment can include electric stimulation or ultrasound as administered by a physical therapist. Chiropractic care is also effective in restoring proper alignment to the spine and reliving pressure from nerves and muscles.

Forward Head Posture is the formal name for the kind of slouched, stooped posture often responsible for other RSIs, such as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Lower Back Pain. Forward Head Posture occurs when the head and ears are forward of the shoulders. This posture causes the muscles at the base of the head and neck to tighten, which restricts circulation through the head, neck and arms. Additionally, Forward Head Posture makes it necessary to tilt the head backwards in order to see something directly in front of you, which compresses the spine and can cause Neck Pain, contribute to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cervical Disc Hernaition, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, and TMJ Dysfunction, as well as lead to pressure on nerves, which can cause headaches and shooting pain down the arms.
Prevention of Forward Head Posture includes adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, practicing proper posture at the computer and concentrating on keeping the ears over the shoulders.

Lower Back Pain is a broad term that includes several types of specific back pain, such as a Hernaited Lumbar Disc, Arthritis, or muscle spasms. Lower back pain can also be a result of muscle tension and practicing poor posture at the computer. However, lower back pain is often frustrating since it is sometimes difficult to attribute the pain to a specific cause.
Symptoms of lower back pain can include pain in the lower back, pain in the buttocks or legs, and tingling, numbness or weakness radiating from the back to the toes.
People at risk for lower back pain include people who practice poor posture at the computer, sedentary workers who take infrequent breaks, and people over 25 years of age.
Prevention of lower back pain includes stretching and strengthening ergocises for the back and legs, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, taking regular breaks from computer work, practicing proper posture at the computer, using a lumbar roll in a desk chair, and using proper body mechanics and articulation when bending over and lifting.
Self Treatment of lower back pain includes stretching and strengthening ergocises for the back and legs, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, avoiding or minimizing painful arm activities, practicing proper posture at the computer, applying ice for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times per day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain and massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste products. Chiropractic care is a popular and effective means of dealing with many types of lower back pain by restoring proper alignment. Traditional medical approaches include medications and electric stimulation or ultrasound as administered by a physical therapist.

TMJ Dysfunction is a disorder of the jaw that occurs when the condyle, the round head of the mandible or jaw bone , cannot move freely. This causes the two jaw bones to jam when the mouth opens or closes.
Symptoms of TMJ Dysfunction can include jaw pain, recurrent or severe headaches, toothaches, earaches accompanied by dizziness, tenderness on the sides of the face, a burning, tingling sensation in the tongue, mouth, or throat, and neck pain, shoulder pain, difficulty opening the mouth completely, locking of the jaw, and clicking or popping noises when opening or closing the mouth.
People at risk for TMJ Dysfunction include people who practice poor posture at the computer, people who practice Forward Head Posture, people who breathe from the mouth, people who rest the phone on their shoulder for long periods of time while talking, people who have suffered an injury to the jaw area, people who clench and grind their teeth, and people who have improper bites.
Prevention of TMJ Dysfunction includes stretching and strengthening ergocises for the neck and face and jaw, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, taking regular breaks from computer work, practicing proper posture at the computer, breathing with the mouth closed and the tongue touching the roof of the mouth, taking steps to relieve stress, and avoiding foods that are hard on the jaw and teeth. Some dentists can fit a special bite plate to prevent grinding during sleep which is also very effective.
Self Treatment of TMJ Dysfunction can include stretching and strengthening ergocises for the neck and face and jaw, adopting an ergonomic workstation arrangement, practicing proper posture at the computer, applying ice for 10 minute intervals 3-5 times per day for the first 48 hours after experiencing pain, and massaging the area to help flush out irritating waste products. Additionaly electric stimulation or ultrasound as administered by a physical therapist can be effective.