Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most frequent peripheral nerve problem, caused by the compression of the median nerve at the wrist in the carpal canal. There is no agreement with regard to initial treatment for CTS, which may be conservative or surgical. Conservative treatment of CTS includes wrist splints; mobilization and adjusting of the wrist, shoulder and neck; modification of activities; tendon and nerve gliding exercises; low-level laser therapy (LLLT), ultrasound; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; and local steroid injections. A new randomized, placebo controlled sham study in the journal Photomedicine and Laser Surgery investigated the efficacy of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) in patients with mild to moderate carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Authors found a significant reduction in pain, reduction in the percentage of patients with a positive Tinel’s sign (orthopedic test), and improvement in nerve conduction testing observed in the laser therapy group (but not in the control group). Essence of Wellness offers laser therapy using the Multiradiance MR4 laser. This super pulsed laser produces high powered light in billionth-of-a-second pulses. The power of each pulse drives the photons, or light energy up to 10—13cm (4—5 inches) deep into the target tissue. Multi Radiance Medical’s technology’s power of up to 50,000 mW creates a high photon density, strongly reducing pain and improving micro-circulation.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Laser Therapy
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About the Author: Dean Smith, DC, PhD
Dean Smith, DC, PhD, husband, and father of two children, is a highly respected health and wellness authority. He is a chiropractor at Essence of Wellness Chiropractic Center and a researcher and clinical professor at Miami University.
Dr. Smith incorporates lifestyle intervention (exercise, nutrition, other non-drug methods) with chiropractic adjustments and other manual methods to encourage optimal wellness. He has helped countless adults and children lead a life of wellness.
His research interests lie broadly in the area of human movement and coordination. He is most interested in how chiropractic, exercise and rehabilitation affect human performance.
His scientific articles have been published in such journals as Human Movement Science, Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, Chiropractic Research Journal, Chiropractic and Osteopathy and The Open Neurology Journal. His training includes a Master’s degree in exercise science, a Doctor of Chiropractic degree and a PhD in brain and cognitive science with a focus on motor control and coordination. The International Federation of Sports Chiropractic has awarded him with the International Chiropractic Sport Science Diploma (ICSSD).
