Magnetic therapy is one of the most interesting physiotherapy techniques used in the rehabilitation of Carpel Tunnel syndrome patients. Application of magnetic therapy can prove particularly useful for a number of reasons
- It helps to reduce localized inflammation, encouraging localized vasodilatation which leads to normalized blood circulation in the affected tissues, thus improving drainage and bringing nutrients and aiding the healing process.
- Pain relief, partly through the direct effect of magnetic fields on the nerve endings, and through the micro currents in the tissues leading to improved circulation and consequently an anti-inflammatory effect.
By reducing inflammation we release pressure on the median nerve. The regulatory effects on the sodium-potassium pump balancing the cells raises the threshold of pain. The relaxing effect of magnetic therapy on the smooth and striated muscles means that the therapy is effective in the treatment of stress, and by applying the magnetic field to the hyper tense muscle we indirectly treat the tendons which compress the carpel tunnel.
Magnetic therapy applied to Carpel Tunnel Syndrome:
- Each Magnetic therapy device has different features; Gauss rating, number of solenoids, frequency range and programmes. To achieve the best results we should pay special attention to the instructions manual. In the case of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome, we suggest working with 100 Gauss and working within a range of 20 – 50 Hz.
Complementary electro magnetic therapies include microwaves, short wave and Capacitive Diathermy. For low frequency pain relief Tens is an option.
Massage, active and passive stretching exercises, ultrasound and laser treatment are just some of the rehabilitation techniques that a physiotherapist can use in treatment of the condition.