With more people shifting to working from home where desk set-ups may not be as ergonomic as in the office, the incidence of wrist and hand conditions are increasing. Many of the citizens of Rochester, NY can sympathize with this lifestyle change. One of the common conditions that affects desk workers is carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by pain, numbness, and/or tingling into the hands and fingers. People living with carpal tunnel symptoms know just how much the symptoms can impact their day to day lives. The symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome can push people to try more invasive treatments before attempting more conservative methods. Understanding the cause of carpal tunnel and fixing the biomechanical problems can be just as effective. Let’s talk about what carpal tunnel syndrome is and how certain chiropractic techniques can help.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the median nerve. This nerve carries sensation and motor function to the palm as well as the thumb, index finger, and middle finger. There are actually a few places that the median nerve can be compressed, but the most common place is in the carpal tunnel. Four bones at the base of the hand are connected in a loop by a ligament stretching across the top of the wrist. This forms a tunnel that is home to tendons, blood vessels, and the median nerve. Any irritation that affects the median nerve in the carpal tunnel will be experienced as pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and fingers.
Repetitive strain injuries are a major cause for carpal tunnel syndrome. One of the most common causes of repetitive strains in the wrist is poor ergonomics and posture while typing on a computer. If your wrist is not properly aligned and supported while typing, the wrist ends up in a bent position which can compress the carpal tunnel as well as its contents. Constant pressure can irritate and inflame the tendons, nerves, and blood vessels within the carpal tunnel which can in turn cause the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome.
Here at Rush-Henrietta Family Chiropractic, your Rochester, NY chiropractor, we treat the cause of carpal tunnel syndrome and not just the symptoms. Adjustments in the hand and wrist help promote better movement to reduce inflammation. By relaxing the muscles in the hand and stretching of ligaments in the wrist, the carpal tunnel is opened up which reduces compression on the structures within it. Specific forearm, wrist, and hand stretches help to reinforce the treatment we provide in the office and gives you a tool to self-manage your symptoms! If you are having symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, schedule an appointment with our office today!
.jpg)
