Carpal tunnel syndrome is found in occupations requiring repetitive action of the flexors of the hand. The "tunnel" is created by the configuration of the carpal bones (the wrist bones). The median nerve, as well as the tendons pass through this "tunnel". Compression of the nerve creates tingling, numbness, and pain which can be severe. The management of this problem is multifacted. 1 - the syndrome, as it relates to pianists, is a result of overuse of the flexors. Strenthening the extensors, as well as stretching of the flexors, often helps to balance out the muscles of the hands and forearms. 2 - the configuration of the carpal bones forms the area similar to a tunnel. Misalignment of the carpal bones causes a narrowing of the tunnel thus placing pressure on the nerve. Adjusting the bones by a competent chiropractor can restore the tunnel to the proper size. 3 - the person needs to wear a splint(s) on the affected hand(s) at night, every night, to help maintain the proper configuration of the carpal bones, thus preserving the tunnel. 4 - reduce salt intake as swelling will again reduce the size of the tunnel. 5 - if none of the above works there is always surgery, however returning to the same activity that caused the problem in the first place will very likely cause a reoccurrence, at which point the person will be back to step one. 6 - as a side note: if this occurs in the novice piano player it may be due to poor technique - a good instructor can help the student learn to play with out locking the wrist up (a common problem in the adult beginner)
This PTG archive page provided courtesy of Moy Piano Service, LLC