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Roughly 3 to 6 percent of adults in the United States suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Given the amount of us who use keyboards every day, that may seem like a shockingly low number.
However, if you are one of the many who are dealing with it, you don't see it as something that anyone should ignore—especially if you can’t seem to avoid the things that contribute to it.
You may wonder if there’s anything you can do for treatment of the issue besides surgery, and if you should visit a chiropractor for carpal tunnel syndrome.
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What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) refers to a case where tissue in the wrist squeezes the median nerve, one of the hand's major nerves. The nerve extends from your spine through a narrow passageway in the wrist called the carpal tunnel, hence the name.
CTS symptoms include a tingling or numb finger sensation, sudden shock sensations in the affected area, weakness, and pain. Because the affected nerve extends across such a wide area, the symptoms may spread to other parts of the body, including the wrist, arm, and shoulder.
The leading cause of CTS is repetitive motion. It's mostly associated with people who spend long hours working on computers or using keyboards. Of course, activities of the likes do cause it, but that's not all that can. Any form of exercise that requires repetitive motion of the hands can cause it. Work, including assembly or using steering wheels, can cause CTS.
How can chiropractic treatment help?
The good news is that we can help relieve the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome through chiropractic care. The procedures are relatively short and can help you recover quickly.
Treatment procedures have a focus on the affected elbow and wrist. But, you may also need adjustments to your upper back. Again, the associated nerve runs from your spine to your arm, and there may be several contributing factors that exist along the way.
Other forms of treatment may be necessary. The use of ultrasound therapy and wrist supports may be required to help protect the area of concern as it recovers.
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What can I do outside of treatment?
We understand that the repetitive motions that cause CTS are seemingly unavoidable as they are a part of how you make a living. But that doesn't mean there aren't steps you can take to avoid causing it.
After your treatment session, you’ll want to consider being mindful of what caused your CTS in the first place. Excessive force, poor form, and bad posture are all known to contribute to the problem negatively.
Placing yourself into an unnatural position for extended periods will also lead to CTS. Whenever possible, you must ensure you take frequent breaks. Furthermore, it is wise to invest in tools or equipment to keep you in a more natural position as you work. For example, pads that elevate your wrist or a well-designed mouse can help alleviate or avoid CTS symptoms.