A chiropractor can help you if your carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is present. You may even want to consider chiropractic care before you have surgery. It is better to avoid invasive surgery than have it. Chiropractic care can be used to relieve pain in the wrists, elbows and shoulders. Let’s discuss carpal tunnel syndrome below so you understand this painful and debilitating condition.
What Is CTS?
The carpal tunnel is a tunnel that runs from your thumb up to your forearm. The tunnel also contains a nerve. It is made up of blood vessels, bones, ligaments, and tendons. Inflammation can lead to swelling, which will cause the nerve in your carpal tunnel to compress. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is the name of this condition. This condition causes pain and discomfort in your hands, wrists, and arms. Severe cases can also affect the shoulders.
What Are the CTS Symptoms?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can present with many symptoms. These symptoms are:
- Numbness in fingers or hands
- Tingling fingers or hands
- Electric shock sensations
- Pain in the wrist or arm
- Hand grip/control loss
CTS should be treated as soon as possible. There are many ways to avoid carpal tunnel syndrome.
Avoidance Measures
CTS prevention is the best treatment. CTS can be caused by a variety of factors. CTS is more common in people who work at computers all day than firefighters. CTS prevention measures include
- When writing or typing, use less pressure
- Regular breaks are necessary for consistent movement
- Flex your arms and hands by stretching and flexing them
- Stretching before you go to work is a good way to warm up
- Your wrist should be straightened so that you don’t bend
- Sit up straight/don’t slouch or lean backward
- Use ergonomic keyboards and mice
- If you are in a cold area, keep your hands warm
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be prevented by taking care of yourself.
Chiropractic Care for CTS
Chiropractic medicine is a special type of medicine for inflammation. CTS treatment will include
- Assessing the spine and shoulder health
- Evaluation of the wrist and elbow health
- Instructions for wrist/hand rest
- Mobilization of the wrist and/or hands
- Strengthening/stretching exercises
- Ice/cold packs to reduce inflammation/swelling
- Mobilization techniques to soft tissue
- Pressure relief with joint manipulation
These things, when combined, can help relieve carpal tunnel syndrome. Contact us today to make an appointment for a CTS assessment. We would be happy to discuss the treatment options for you so you can avoid having surgery.
