Are Migraines and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Related?

According to a study conducted by Dr. Huay-Zong Law and his colleagues at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) patients are about 2.6 times as likely to suffer from migraines. The researchers also found that those with migraines are 2.7 times as likely to have CTS. The link between these conditions remains unexplained, but Dr. Law and his team postulate that they may share a "common systemic or neurologic risk factor."

Both conditions are associated with risk factors such as obesity, smoking, and female sex. The relationship between CTS and migraines is independent of these factors. The researchers noted that CTS is more common among older age groups and migraines are more common among younger age groups. Hopefully further research will determine whether migraines can serve as a predictor for future problems with CTS.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a nerve compression condition, meaning that it results from pressure or pinching of a nerve. The link between CTS and migraines found in this study supports the theory that migraines can also be triggered by nerve compression. Surgical techniques are currently being developed to address the possibility of migraine-inducing trigger points. Due to doubts regarding the efficacy and safety of these surgical procedures, they are mostly restricted to experimental clinical trials.

Remember, if migraines or carpal tunnel syndrome are interfering with your life, you may benefit from neurological treatment. Consult with a neurologist in your area to learn about your condition and treatment options.

You can read the abstract for the study here.

Healthy Living with Neuroprotection

Neuroprotection refers to the protection of neurons and their functions from damage and degradation. You can use neuroprotective strategies to manage neurological disorders or simply to maintain the overall health of your nervous system. Some of the easiest neuroprotective strategies to add to your daily routine include eating more spices and drinking green tea.

Spice Things Up

Neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s are relatively uncommon in Asia, and lifestyle factors may be the cause. In fact, some researchers theorize that the ample spices used in many Asian cultures have a neuroprotective effect. Research indicates that black pepper, garlic, cinnamon, and other spices protect nerves due to their anti-inflammatory effect.

Drink Green Tea

Green tea can have a positive effect on the nervous system due to its high concentration of polyphenols. Polyphenols are naturally occurring antioxidants that protect neurons by eliminating harmful free radicals. Green tea also contains caffeine, which has been linked to the preservation of neurons and the reduction of cognitive decline. 

The Impact of Nutrition on Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery

When recovering from a traumatic brain injury, proper nutrition is crucial. The brain requires energy and specific nutrients to function, and these factors become even more important during the recovery process. Although research on the subject is still in its infancy, researchers have identified a number of dietary factors that contribute to brain repair after a head injury.

 The Department of Defense asked the Institute of Medicine to review studies on the relationship between nutrition and brain recovery in an effort to aid injured soldiers. The researchers concluded that infusions of protein and calories contribute to recovery by reducing inflammation in the brain. The calories also prevent energy deficiencies that could interfere with the repair process.

 Other important nutrients that may play a role during recovery include creatine and zinc. Creatine keeps the brain sharp by providing it with ATP, a molecule that facilitates the transfer of chemical energy in the body. The best dietary sources of creatine are lean meat and eggs.

 Zinc has been shown to reduce brain injury-related depression and improve memory and other cognitive functions. Foods with high zinc content include oysters, beef, spinach, nuts, and pumpkin seeds.