Nerve Entrapment Syndrome

A condition that results in continuous or intermittent compression of one or more peripheral nerves. Cause: Certain peripheral nerves are prone to compression because they pass through specific regions tthat are subject to the effects of pressure from surrounding areas, as in repetitive movements, for example. From: Premkumar, Kalyani; Pathology A to Z, A Handbook for Massage Therapists; Lippincott Williams & Wilkins,a wolters Kluers business, p. 251.

I have worked with several people who have had this problem. In one case a lady was sewing dresses for her granddaughters wedding along with handling a lot of other activities pertaining to the wedding. She began to have pain in her shoulders going down her arms and her hands were slightly numb. After a couple of sessions she was better and busy with the wedding plans.

So, if you are doing a lot of repetitive work with you hands and arms and have similar problems get a massage. You'll be glad you did.

Caution: Pain shooting down the arms along with numbness can be caused by a more serious condition especially if it comes on suddenly with nausea and sweating or you feel clammy. In this type of situation talk to a medical professional at once.