Dealing with pain, numbness, and tingling sensations in your hands and wrists can be incredibly frustrating, especially when it starts to interfere with your daily activities. And surprisingly, these symptoms can all be a sign of carpal tunnel syndrome. So, what can you do about it?
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach to tackle your pain and get you back to your normal. So, in this article, we explore exactly how chiropractic care can help. But first, let’s take a closer look at carpal tunnel syndrome and why it happens.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand through a narrow passageway called the carpal tunnel, becomes compressed or pinched.
This compression can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
- Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the hand and fingers, particularly in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger
- Weakness in the hand, making it difficult to grip objects or perform fine motor tasks
- Pain or discomfort in the hand, wrist, or forearm, which may extend up to the elbow
- The sensation of swelling in the fingers, even if no visible swelling is present
So, why does this condition happen in the first place? Well, carpal tunnel syndrome can be caused by various factors, including:
- Repetitive hand and wrist motions, such as typing, playing musical instruments, or using hand tools
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or thyroid disorders
- Pregnancy, due to hormonal changes and fluid retention
- Wrist injuries or fractures that cause inflammation and swelling in the carpal tunnel
If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage, making early intervention crucial for preventing long-term complications. And luckily, your local Plano chiropractor is here to help.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care offers a unique approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome by focusing on the underlying musculoskeletal imbalances that may contribute to the condition. Chiropractors use a variety of techniques to address these imbalances, reduce nerve compression, and promote healing including:
- Gentle manipulation: Chiropractors can perform gentle adjustments to the wrist, hand, and upper spine to improve joint mobility, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pressure on the median nerve.
- Soft tissue therapy: Techniques such as massage, stretching, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization can help reduce muscle tension and scar tissue in the forearm and wrist, improving circulation and promoting healing.
- Ergonomic advice: Your chiropractor can provide guidance on optimizing your workspace and modifying your daily activities to reduce stress on your hands and wrists and prevent further irritation of the median nerve.
One key advantage of chiropractic care for carpal tunnel syndrome is its focus on addressing the root cause of the problem rather than simply masking the symptoms. By improving the overall function of your hands, wrists, and upper spine, chiropractic care can help you experience long-lasting relief and reduce your reliance on pain medications or invasive treatments.
If you’re suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, consider consulting with Keystone Chiropractic. Our team is committed to helping you get back to your regular activities pain-free. Book your appointment now!