Yes, a chiropractor can help if you have carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). In fact, you may want to opt for chiropractic care first because it can reduce the need for surgery. Why have invasive surgery when you can avoid it? Chiropractic care is a non-invasive way to treat the pain in your wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Let’s talk more about carpal tunnel syndrome below.
What Is CTS?
You have a tunnel that runs from your hand up your forearm, and this tunnel is called the carpal tunnel. Inside the tunnel is a nerve that also runs the distance of the tunnel. The tunnel is comprised of blood vessels, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Inflammation can cause swelling that will compress the nerve in the carpal tunnel. This is called carpal tunnel syndrome.
What Are CTS Symptoms?
There are many symptoms that accompany carpal tunnel syndrome. They are
- Finger or hand numbness
- Finger or hand tingling
- Electrical shock sensations
- Pain in the wrist and arm
- Loss of hand grip/control
It’s important to have any of these symptoms looked into right away because the sooner CTS is treated the easier it is to treat. In fact, there are ways you can avoid carpal tunnel syndrome.
Avoidance Measures
Avoiding CTS is the best medicine. Depending on what you do, you may be more susceptible to getting CTS. For example, if you sit at a computer and type all day, you are more likely to get CTS than a firefighter. Avoidance measures to help prevent CTS include
- Use less pressure when typing or writing
- Take frequent breaks from consistent movement
- Stretch and flex your hands and arms
- Warm-up with stretching before work
- Keep your wrist straight without bending
- Focus on your posture so that it’s correct
- Use ergonomic keyboards and mice
- Keep your hands warm if in a cold environment
Taking care of you helps prevent carpal tunnel syndrome in the first place.
Chiropractic Care for CTS
A doctor of chiropractic medicine is a specialist in inflammation, so he or she can help if you end up with carpal tunnel syndrome. The treatment for CTS will include
- Evaluating the spinal and shoulder health
- Evaluating the wrist and elbow health
- Complete rest instructions for the wrist/hand
- Hand and/or wrist mobilization
- Strengthening/stretching exercises
- Ice/cold packs to reduce inflammation/swelling
- Mobilization techniques for soft tissue
- Joint manipulation to relieve pressure
When combined, these things can relieve your carpal tunnel syndrome and keep you from the surgical knife. Call us today to schedule an appointment for a CTS evaluation.
