Carpal Tunnel and Chiropractic
Because we live in the digital age, individuals often find themselves spending long hours over keyboard and on their smart-phones. I realize this may sound obvious, but these activities can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), an impingement of the median nerve that runs through the wrist. Other repetitive activities can also lead to carpal tunnel syndrome. This type of injury can cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms that impact the ability to perform work and personal tasks. OTC medication for pain management may not provide sufficient relief. In Level Up Sports Chiropractic, chiropractic methods can help to improve wrist function, reduce symptoms and help you manage CTS problems.
Understanding carpal tunnel syndrome
The carpal tunnel is an area in the wrist composed of several bones that form a hollow space. The median nerve passes through this hollow area and transmits signals for normal movement of the wrist and hand. Repetitive actions are often a culprit in causing CTS problems. Overuse of the wrist can cause poor alignment of the arm, shoulder and spine. The body is designed to function as a complete unit, and sometimes, it can get out of alignment, leading to a variety of symptoms. As this misalignment continues, it causes increased stress on delicate structures in the wrist. While OTC medication may provide temporary relief in may also not be enough to reduce long-term pain or discomfort. Studies show that mild to moderate symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can improve with non-medical methods of treatment. Here, we’ve found that early chiropractic intervention can increase the odds of successful recovery from CTS.
Chiropractic Techniques Used To Relieve Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Chiropractic techniques to bring the spine and arm into normal alignment can help to relieve pressure on the median nerve, reducing pain and abnormal nerve function. Spinal adjustment helps to re-align the spine, allowing better arm and wrist movement. Soft tissue manipulation, corrective exercise and bracing of the wrist can help to relieve discomfort. Trigger point therapy can aid pain management. Part of my training is to help individuals learn proper ergonomic adjustment of their work environment, to reduce strain on the musculoskeletal system. I can also recommend supplements you can take to improve muscle and nerve function in the hand and wrist. These are conversations and recommendation we have almost every week at our Manhattan-practice.
Advantages of Chiropractic Methods
Chiropractic offers a drug-free, non-invasive option for a variety of musculoskeletal issues. You don’t have to worry about side effects for pain management. There’s no “downtime” from surgical procedures. You can continue your usual activities without ill effect after a treatment session.
If you struggle with wrist pain, tingling in the hand, numbness and clumsiness, I can help with chiropractic techniques to improve arm and hand function. After a careful evaluation, I will design an individualized care plan for your needs, to release compression of the median nerve and help you implement the ergonomic improvements that will reduce the actions that can lead to wrist pain.