Expert: John R. Cross - 10/28/2009

Question
Hello, I was in a head on car wreck 17 yrs. ago. I now have carprial tunnel in both hands, back pain and mainly I have an ankle that was severely broken that still has hardware in it. The pain has worsen with the arthritis and swelling and I am having difficulty getting around on it. Could you recommend some type of therapy that might help me in managing the pain. I would greatly appreciate your assistance. Thank you...

Answer
Hello Angelina,

I am sorry to hear that you are suffering. The carpal tunnel pain in the wrists may be coming from a problem with your neck. I am assuming that you could have undergone a whiplash injury in the car crash - x-rays, MRI or palpation by an expert will verify this. It is also possible that this may have caused the back pain - these things take many years to enfold.

I would suggest that you find a competent osteopath or physical therapist who would, hopefully, sort out the neck and back and should also be able to help with the ankle pain. As with all good medicine, it is the cause that has to be addressed, not just the symptoms. I could suggest some reflexology, acupressure or a TENS machine to help with the pain although this could only relax the body and ease the discomfort but it could not manage something that could be a mechanical mis-alignment. The best of both worlds would be to have the underlying mechanics put right and be taught some good self help treatments afterwards by using some touch therapy. Let me know if you want me to be more specific. - John