What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when nerves and tendons at the base of your hand swell or become compressed and irritated. The condition is associated with long-lasting pain if it’s left untreated. Carpal tunnel syndrome can affect the way you’re able to grasp objects and perform other everyday functions.
What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?
Signs and symptoms often associated with carpal tunnel syndrome include:
- Pain in your hand, fingers, wrist, or forearm
- Numbness
- Tingling
- A feeling of an electric shock
- Pain when grasping something
- Problems sleeping
- Weakness in your hand
Pain, numbness, or weakness associated with carpal tunnel syndrome might cause you to drop objects or not be able to properly hold a steering wheel.
What are carpal tunnel syndrome risk factors?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is often caused by nerve pressure. Anything that irritates nerves or squeezes them can lead to this often-debilitating condition. Examples include overuse injuries, fractures, dislocation, and swelling. Carpal tunnel syndrome risk factors to be aware of include:
- Arthritis
- Extensive computer use
- Chronic disease
- Being a woman
- Obesity
- Genetic factors
- Nerve damage
Fluid retention associated with menopause or pregnancy may also increase your risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome.
How is carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
To diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome, your chiropractor reviews your symptoms and medical history. They complete a physical exam and may use X-rays, electromyogram to measure electrical activity in muscles, or nerve conduction studies.
What is the treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome?
Your personalized carpal tunnel syndrome treatment plan is based on the severity of your injury. Your Paladin Chiropractic specialist might recommend:
Soft tissue release
During soft tissue release, your provider may use instrument-assisted soft tissue manipulation, or IASTM, to relieve nerve pressure, accelerate healing, and alleviate pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Chiropractic adjustments
Making tiny adjustments to tissues in your hand and wrist can restore musculoskeletal function and offer pain relief.
Vitamin therapy
Proper nutrition helps reduce inflammation and stimulate your body’s natural healing response. The Paladin Chiropractic team offers various whole food supplements from highly reputable sources, including Standard Process®, NutriWest®, Biotics®, Pure Encapsulations®, and Anabolic Laboratories.
Heat and cold treatment
Heat and cold treatment using diathermy or cold laser therapy can reduce inflammation, loosen muscles, improve circulation, and heal tissues natural for pain relief.
Electrical stimulation
During electrical stimulation, which might last 10-20 minutes, your provider uses electrical energy to stimulate muscle contractions and relieve tension in injured areas.
Don’t let pain associated with carpal tunnel syndrome ruin your quality of life or prevent you from enjoying normal everyday activities. Schedule an appointment with Paladin Chiropractic over the phone or online today.
