Median Nerve Entrapment Resulting in Unilateral Action Tremor of the Hand

Journal of Sports Chiropractic & Rehabilitation

Dale J. Buchberger, D.C., D.A.C.B.S.P., Helen Rizzoto, D.C., C.C.S.P., and Bradley J. McAdam, D.C., C.C.S.P.

Abstract

This article discusses a case of median nerve entrapment with an associated action tremor of the right hand in a 39-yr-old woman. The complaint of unilateral hand tremor was dismissed by her allopathic physicians as “psychological.” A thorough history and physical exarnination were used to rule out a pathological cause of the tremor and ffictively find the cause. Management was directed toward multiple areas of entrapment along the kinetic chain of the upper extremity and cervicothoracic spine. Treatment included Active Release Technique, contract relax technique, electrical muscle stimulation, diversified chiropractic manipulative therapy, active stretching of the wrist flexors and extensors, and active strengthening of the wrist flexors and extensors. This patient recovered sfficiently to return to normal occupational and social activities. She experiences occasional exacerbations with increased keyboard work that resolve with supportive treatment as previously discussed.