You’ve most likely heard of carpal tunnel syndrome before, but do you know what it is? Carpal tunnel is often identified by weakness, tingling, and numbness in the thumb, index, or middle finger. It involves issues with the wrists and hands, and is becoming more and more common due to frequent use of computers and mobile devices. Here’s what you need to know.
How Does It Happen?
Truthfully anyone can get carpal tunnel, but those that perform repetitive motions with their hands like cashiers, hairdressers, and typists are more prone to it. The carpal tunnel is a fibrous band of tissue located on the front of the wrist, where you would wear a watch. It holds many of the nerves, blood vessels, and tendons that your hands use to function. When it is damaged and added pressure is put on the arteries and nerves of the wrist and hand, carpal tunnel syndrome occurs.
What Does It Feel Like?
Carpal tunnel syndrome doesn’t just develop overnight and can present itself in many ways. Painful symptoms can take months to fully present themselves and will only worsen if not treated. Symptoms can include muscle loss in the palms and clumsiness or weakness in the hands. It can be aggravated by conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid problems, or diabetes and is typically worsened by repetitive behaviors.
As we stated earlier, people who work on computers have a bigger risk of suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome because of the continual strain put on the wrist, forearm, hand, and shoulder muscles. Injuries due to repetitive strain can be prevented by using workplace ergonomics and taking regular stretch breaks. Feel free to ask us for some stretching suggestions during your next visit!
What Is The Treatment?
Medical doctors traditionally treat carpal tunnel syndrome with injections, splints, surgeries, and OTC medications. Here at Preferred Chiropractic, we can treat the underlying cause of your pain while avoiding risky treatments. Our effective and gentle chiropractic adjustments leave some of our patients feeling better after just one visit!
If you would like to prevent or treat carpal tunnel syndrome, chiropractic may be your solution. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help relieve your pain.
