Understanding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

In the United States, 1 out of every 20 people will suffer from the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome at some point in their lives. Out of this 5%, women are the most vulnerable and 3 times more likely to develop the condition in comparison to males. Carpal tunnel syndrome is also most common in middle aged and elderly individuals, with over 80% of patients over 40 years of age.

What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is believed to occur when the median nerve traveling through the carpal tunnel of the wrist is entrapped or compressed. The carpal tunnel is a passageway within the wrist that connects the forearm to the palm. This tunnel consists of bones, several tendons and connective tissue. This tunnel is also rather narrow and when any tendons passing through it swell, the narrowing of the tunnel often results in the median nerve becoming entrapped or compressed.

The Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

There are a variety of symptoms associated with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, but the condition typically causes pain and discomfort, muscle weakness and a sensation of numbness or tingling in the hand. More specifically the most common symptoms of Carpal Tunnel syndrome include:

• Hand and wrist pain or discomfort


• A Tingling sensation in the fingers


• Numbness in the fingers or hand


• A sense of weakness in the hands


• Pain radiating from the wrist up the arm to the shoulder

The Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

The underlying causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome are relatively unknown and genetic factors may be the leading cause of the condition. However, some common systemic conditions that can lead to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include hypothyroidism, obesity, arthritis, diabetes and trauma.

Treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Possible treatments for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome include splinting or bracing, corticosteroid injection, activity modification, anti inflammatory medications and surgical release of the transverse carpal ligament.

Immobilizing Braces for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The importance of wrist braces and wrist splints for reducing the amount of discomfort caused by Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is well known, but many people are unwilling to use these orthotic devices on a regular basis. However, wrist braces and splints have become lighter, cheaper and more comfortable in recent years making this form of treatment more desirable. For example, Ossur makes a Carpal Tunnel wrist brace that features a lightweight low profile design that limits motion, but maintains a high level of comfort. In addition, Swede-O manufactures several wrist braces for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome that not only limits movement, but also provides the added benefits of heat therapy.

About MMAR Medical: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale distributor of medical devices and comfort footwear for diabetics. Whether you are looking for hinged knee braces, back braces or carpal tunnel wrist supports, MMAR Medical has the highest quality products and professional expertise to find you what you need.

Healing Contractures Around the Globe - Some Rigidness with a Little Give

These pictures are of a little girl I met in China who has Cerebral Palsy. Her clinicians took me to see her because of her "deformed, twisted back, right elbow and both hands." They were hopeful that my experience with contracture management would provide some relief for the girl.

The first thing I did was to find a little straight backed chair and have them to sit her up with good 90 degree Pelvic tilt. As you can see, all the neurological tone that was twisting her spine and upper body was relaxed – notice her right hand! Her left hand and right elbow had already sustained a moderate amount of shortened tissue so they were fit with Restorative Medical’s NeuroFlex® Contracture Management splints, but positioning her body in an upright position with good 90 degree pelvic tilt was all the rest of her body needed.

Every patient is different and some respond better than others to positioning, but we use the same basic guidelines with all Restorative patients. As close to upright positioning as possible. Nothing rigid. Gentle stretching, and never beyond the stretch threshold. Treatments must be comfortable and not present a potential for pressure. Splints must have "Flex" properties with memory. As Dr. Ken Mook, a prominent physiatrist in Louisville Kentucky notes "I have found that a static, rigid splint is not effective in controlling spasticity because it provides a persistence of a spastic event by not allowing the muscle to shorten. A splint that has static properties with some dynamic "give" during a spastic event allows the muscle to shorten, thereby the spastic event regresses, and yet the splint maintains the proper positioning of the joint. The NeuroFlex Restorative braces made by Restorative Medical are the best I’ve seen and used with my patients. I whole-heartedly recommend this company’s products for bracing of limbs with spasticity."

When nerves are damaged in the Central Nervous System (brain and/or spinal cord) they may cause muscles to contract with no message getting back down from the brain/spinal cord to make them relax. This is what we refer to as neurological tone or "tone." This tone begins the 3rd day after many Central Nervous System injuries. If we stop it then with the appropriate technology, we can prevent most if not all of the life-altering deformities that might occur. If the person has already developed shortened tissue, we begin to work them back toward normal alignment. Tone can result in shortened tissue. Tone and/or shortened tissue result in a loss of range of motion of the joint(s)/body parts. Loss of range of motion is commonly referred to as "contracture." Contractures in neurological patients are preventable and very treatable. Neurological patients are those with conditions like Cerebral Palsy; Multiple Sclerosis; Traumatic Brain Injury, stroke and other injuries to the brain; Parkinson’s; Dementia; Spinal Cord Injury and end stage Alzheimer’s disease. When we talk about Orthopedic/Rehab treatment we talk in days and weeks, but when we talk about Restorative patient’s treatment it is months and years.

About the Guest Author: Karen L. Bonn, RN, COF and CFO at Restorative Medical, Inc. (RMI). Headquartered in Brandenburg, Kentuckym, RMI designs and manufactures medical splints and braces for treating patients with lost range of motion resulting from immobility and diagnoses like cerebral palsy, traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. RMI pioneered the massage and gentle stretch approach to treating contractures, as opposed to the old range-of-motion (ROM) exercises. MMAR Medical is grateful to Karen Bonn and RMI for their invaluable expertise as well as their philanthropic service to those in need around the globe. You can learn more about Restorative Medical’s NeuroFlex® Contracture Management elbow splint here.

Common Elbow Injuries

Joints are the body’s shocks – they absorb the impact of our falls, runs, jumps and other activities. As the center of articulation between the upper bone of the arm (humerus) and the forearm bones (ulna, radius), the elbow is an important joint for range of motion and mobility; as such, elbow injuries can prove quite a serious hindrance. Those who are at most risk include the elderly and those who are involved in more demanding sports activities such as snowboarding, skiing, mountain climbing, etc.

Dislocation:

Elbow dislocation usually occurs when one falls on an outstretched or extended arm, typically while playing contact sports or during a fall. The resulting injury involves acute pain in the elbow as well as a loss of range of motion and extension, it may also appear as though the elbow is deformed or bent awkwardly.

Dislocation can be remedied by re-aligning the elbow joint correctly, a procedure that should only be performed by a medical provider as the patient will need pain medication and an x-ray.

Fracture

A bone fracture is defined as a break in the continuity of the bone and is usually the result of high force impact or stress. Bone fractures may also be a result of a pre-existing medical condition that weakens the bones such as cancer or osteoporosis.

Much like a dislocation, fractures cause acute, localized pain, swelling, bruising and joint deformity. In the case that you believe you have experienced an elbow fracture, be sure to have it attended to as soon as possible to minimize long term complications. Typically a fracture will need time to heal so the arm may be placed in an arm brace or other elbow support.

Chronic Elbow Injuries

Chronic elbow injuries are conditions that occur over the long term, usually lasting more than 2 weeks, and are accompanied by recurrent pain, stiffness, or loss of motion. These injuries can be the result of repeated injuries, other medical conditions, or previous trauma. One of the most common causes of chronic elbow (and general joint) pain is arthritis. There are three type of arthritis – OA (osteoarthritis), PA (posttraumatic arthritis), and RA (rheumatoid arthritis), all of which may cause recurring elbow pain. Patients with OA may experience a locking or catching sensation in the joint, while those with RA typically experience swelling and joint deformity.

Another familiar chronic elbow injury is tendinitis, the inflammation of a tendon. Tendons are a tough tissue that connect bones to muscles and withstand substantial tension and their inflammation can arise from frequent, physically demanding activity (repetitive motion injury). For example, mountain climbers will typically develop tendinitis in their fingers and elbows while swimmers may develop it in their shoulders. Symptoms of tendinitis can include stiffness, aches, pains and burning around the inflamed tendon. Fortunately, anti-inflammatory medicines and psychical therapy can alleviate pain and injury. Rest, ice, compression and elevation are the four main components to recovery from tendinitis. Using cold therapy to keep swelling and inflammation at bay can alleviate pain and minimize long term damage.

Keep in mind that older adults are at higher risk for elbow injuries and fractures because they lose muscle mass and bone strength as they age. Vision and balance problems may also contribute to falling and injuries.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale medical supplier specializing in diabetic footwear, cold therapy systems and various medical braces. Please visit www.mmarmedical.com for more information.

Common Ankle Injuries

With springtime rapidly approaching, the days are getting sunnier and warmer, enticing people to play outdoors. During outdoor exercise and activity, the ankle is one of the most vulnerable and easily injured components of the body. The most common ankle injury is the ankle sprain, also known as a rolled ankle, twisted ankle, or ankle ligament injury. An ankle sprain is very common and surprisingly easy to do... but thankfully, it is also very treatable. Here are some of the basic facts about sprained ankles.

A sprained ankle occurs when your ankle moves in a way that it is not supposed to move. This includes jumping and landing on your ankle incorrectly or stepping laterally incorrectly while playing sports. Many basketball players have had this common injury occur because of the lateral motion and jumping that is part of the game. Tennis is another sport that is no stranger to sprained ankles.

There are three types of sprained ankle injuries: inversion, eversion and high ankle sprains. Inversion is when you roll your ankle on the outside of the foot. This is the most common type of sprain with over 90% of sprains consisting of inversion sprains. Eversion is when the ankle rolls on the inside of the foot and high ankle injuries occur from a sudden outward twisting motion of the foot.

Ankle sprains are classified into three classes. Class 1 sprain occurs when the ligaments are only minimally damaged. Class 2 sprains occur when there is some tearing of the ligaments. Class 3 is the classification of the most severe tears and ankle injuries.

A sprained ankle creates swelling and inflammation in the ankle. It might be hard to put pressure on the ankle since the nerves in the ankle become more sensitive.

The best way to treat most sprained ankles is through RICE - rest, ice, compression, and elevation.

Rest: try not to use the ankle whenever possible. This includes staying away from sports and exercise.

Ice: Icing the ankle can reduce swelling. You can use cold therapy wraps or professional cold therapy systems. Just make sure you do not ice it for too long - 20 minute increments should suffice.

Compression: Ankle braces are known to improve ankle injuries. Ankle braces range from simple ace bandages to laced ankle braces to even high-tech hinged ankle braces. Braces provide support for the ankle. Compression braces/bandages also help push swelling away from the ankle and toward the body.

Elevation: Elevating the ankle above the heart aids in reducing swelling.

Sprained ankles can be a pain and debilitate a key part of our body. The good thing is that most twisted ankles can be healed but only with proper treatment. Remember, rest, ice, use a ankle brace and your ankle will be healed promptly.

About the Author: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale medical supplier specializing in diabetic footwear, cold therapy systems and various medical braces. Please visit www.mmarmedical.com for more information.

About Osteoarthritis (OA) of the Knee

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Tips for Joint Health

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Is Your Blood Pressure in Check?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of people every year—including young children and teenagers. Hypertension is also the most common type of cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of strokes and a major risk factor for heart attacks. In the US alone, approximately 75 million people have been diagnosed with high blood pressure.

What is it?

Simply put, blood pressure refers to the physical force/pressure placed on artery walls as blood is pumped throughout the body. Similar to that of an inflated tire, blood fills arteries to a specific capacity and if this threshold is exceeded damage to the arteries may occur.

How is it measured?

A blood pressure reading consists of two distinct numbers. The first and higher of the two being systolic pressure. Systolic pressure refers to the pressure in the arterial walls when the heart beats and fills them with blood. The second number in a blood pressure reading is the diastolic pressure. Diastolic pressure refers to the pressure within the arterial walls when the heart rests between beats. In general, an individual’s blood pressure will rise steadily as they age from about 90/60 at birth to 120/80 as a healthy adult. However, it's natural for blood pressure to rise and fall when engaging in vigorous activity.

What is considered high?

If your blood pressure readings are frequently 140/90 or higher then you’re considered to have high blood pressure. If your blood pressure remains at this level or continues to rise your physician will most likely put you on a blood pressure treatment. On the other hand, if your blood pressure readings are 200/120 or higher than you may need immediate medical care and you should consult with your primary care physician as soon as possible.

How do I know if I have high blood pressure?

Unfortunately, many people who suffer from high blood pressure don’t actually know they have the condition. Hypertension is commonly referred to as the "silent killer," because it rarely causes noticeable symptoms even in extreme cases. Your best option for keeping an eye on your blood pressure is to have your blood pressure checked regularly. You can have your blood pressure checked at a medical clinic, your neighborhood pharmacy or you can opt to purchase your own personal blood pressure monitor. Home blood pressure monitors come in a number of different sizes and include various features such as easy squeeze inflation bulbs, voice prompting and onboard memory. Digital blood pressure monitors are also fairly inexpensive and may end up saving your life. For more information relating to your specific situation or high blood pressure in general, please speak with your personal physician.

This information is not intended to supplement or replace advice from a medical professional, or to diagnose or treat any condition. If you experience high blood pressure, seek out the care of a medical professional immediately.

About MMAR Medical: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale distributor of medical devices and comfort footwear, including shoes for diabetics. Whether you are looking for hinged knee braces, back braces or elbow / wrist supports, MMAR Medical has the highest quality products and professional expertise to find you what you need.

Eat this... Not that! Diabetic Safe Food Options

Contrary to popular belief, diabetes does not mean the end of enjoying food. There are plenty of delicious foods that are diabetes friendly. The key is to monitor your diet and replace foods high in sugar and carbohydrates with healthy alternatives. Below is an example of good options and bad options for diabetics.

Breakfast:

Eat this: Reduced fat yogurt with low-fat granola and non-fat or low fat milk.

Not this: doughnuts with apple Juice

It is important to start the day off right to make sure your blood sugar is right on track. Avoid sugary cereals, white bread, bacon and processed juices.

Lunch:

Eat this: Ham sandwich with lettuce, tomato and low fat mayo on whole wheat bread with water or unsweetened ice tea with lemon to drink

Not this: Hamburger with fries and a soda to drink


If you are going to have red meat, ham is one of the best meats that a diabetic can have. It is rich in protein and contains little fat. Additionally, whole wheat bread is a excellent source of fiber. Soda is one of the most sugar-filled items on the market with cans having dozens of grams of sugar per glass so it is an item to try to avoid.

Afternoon Snack:

Eat This: granola bar or beef jerky (both should be sugar free - they sneak it in, so be sure to check!)

Not this: bag of chips


Chips have a high glycemic score and are not ideal for controlling blood sugar. Instead granola bars are a great source of fiber. Be sure to read the label though to make sure granola bars have at least 5 grams of fiber and less than 150 calories per bar. Likewise, sugar-free beef jerky is high in protein and low in calories.

Dinner:

Eat This: Skinless chicken breast seasoned to taste, green bean casserole (made with non or low fat mushroom soup) and water or unsweetened ice tea with lemon.

Not This: Pork chops, butter rolls and alcohol


Chicken breast is an excellent source of protein. Avoid butter because it is high in fat which leads to cardiovascular diseases for diabetics.

Regulating your food intake is very important in your diabetic diet. Be sure to couple a healthy diet with regular exercise, as exercising can help improve your body’s use of insulin and decrease your body fat (which results in improved insulin sensitivity). Even walking a few times a week in diabetic shoes can help put you on the right track.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a supplier of orthopedic medical braces including a wide selection of hinged knee and ACL braces. MMMAR Medical is also proud to feature a wide selection of diabetic footwear as well as socks for diabetics.

A Quick Guide to Diabetic Foot Care

One fifth of adult diabetics are hospitalized at some point in time for major foot complications. Type 2 diabetes contributes to foot issues in several ways. Diabetics often struggle with poor circulation, which impairs one’s ability to heal wounds and fight infection. Diabetics also frequently experience neuropathy, acute nerve damage, which can diminish their ability to recognize and treat an injury. Small cuts and brittle calluses can become dangerous infections if they go unnoticed. This, in turn, can lead to hospitalization or even, in the most extreme instances, amputation. For these reasons, diabetic must be vigilant when it comes to caring for their feet. The following are the best practices for keeping diabetic feet happy and healthy.

• If you have Type 2 Diabetes, take time everyday to care for your feet.


• Check your feet regularly for sores, blisters, cuts, calluses, or other issues. Never ignore any sort of irritation. If you have trouble seeing your feet, consider purchasing magnifying glasses and place a mirror on the floor or ask a family member check for you.


• Wash your feet thoroughly with lukewarm water, but refrain from soaking them for long periods of time. After washing, file down calluses and corns gently with an emery board. Coat your feet with a thin application of lotion. Avoid putting excess lotion between toes as these sorts of nooks can harbor bacteria.


• Trim your toenails once a week and file away any jagged edges.


• Visit the doctor at least once a month to have a formal foot check-up.


• Always wear comfortable diabetic shoes. This is critical as most foot ailments are rooted in poorly fitting shoes. Make sure they fit correctly and have bacteria-resistant breathable fabric. Always don seamless socks to prevent blisters.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical condition, or be taken as medical advice. ALWAYS report any foot issues to your doctor immediately, especially if you notice swelling, pain, cracks, bleeding calluses, open sores, changes in color of the skin or nail, or distinct changes in skin temperature. For more information related to your unique situation, please speak with your personal physician.

About MMAR Medical Group: MMAR Medical Group Inc. is a wholesale distributor of medical devices and comfort footwear, including shoes for diabetics. Whether you are looking for hinged knee braces, back braces or elbow or wrist supports, MMAR Medical has the highest quality products and professional expertise to find you what you need.

Common Shoulder Injuries

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