Dear Doctor: I am suffering from what I have been told is a "neuromedian disturbance." First, my hands started going to sleep. Then I lost strength in one hand. What can I do about this?

The writer of the above inquiry was referring to the median nerve which passes through a sheath in the wrist, or carpal, area. Pressure on the nerve there can cause what is called carpal tunnel syndrome: tingling, numbness, or loss of strength in the fingers.

There are many contributing causes to the carpal tunnel syndrome ranging from low thyroid to menopause. By far, the most common cause is injury or excessive strain. Just as the leaves of an injured branch will wither, so, too, will a hand lose its usefulness if this problem goes unresolved.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is one of those "sure as the sun will rise" problems. The problem will keep returning, with greater intensity, just as surely as the sun rises, if no effective treatment is obtained.

There are many short-range treatments for this condition, but they are something of a "band-aid" approach to the problem. Simply trying to reduce or prevent the tingling and numbness is not a solution. Nor is immobilization a desirable goal. The only proper goal is restoration of use.

Have you noticed occasional tingling in the fingers or numbness of a hand that frequently "goes to sleep?" Have you been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome? I urge you to seek care from a Doctor of Chiropractic.

Chiropractic treatment has proven to be ever so effective in unlocking nerve pressure and restoring vital nerve flow.

Jim Bleecker, MS. Ed., D.C.

Jim Bleecker, MS. Ed., D.C.