Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition that causes pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and wrist. It occurs when the Median Nerve, which runs from the forearm into the hand, becomes compressed at the wrist. The discomfort can often be felt specifically in the palm or thumb.
In this blog post, we'll explore what causes CTS and some of the treatment options available to you!
What Can Cause Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Several factors can contribute to the development of CTS, including:
· Repetitive hand and wrist movements: Activities such as typing, using a computer mouse, or playing an instrument can put stress on the wrist and contribute to the development of CTS. Physically laborious jobs or careers with a lot of repetition may put you at an additional risk of developing CTS.
· Previous Injury to the Wrist: Certain wrist anatomy, such as having a smaller carpal tunnel or a wrist injury that didn't heal properly, can increase the likelihood of developing CTS.
· Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hypothyroidism, and Diabetes, can increase the risk of developing CTS. The reasoning is different for each of these examples, so it may be best to discuss with our Doctors at Rosedale Chiropractic to have an in-depth assessment for your specific condition and if it may contribute to the development of CTS.
· Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the pressure on the median nerve and contribute to the development of CTS.
What Are Some Treatment Options for CTS?
Wrist Splints: Wearing a wrist splint, specifically, splints that keep your hand and wrist in a neutral position, can help reduce pressure on the median nerve. Splints are often worn at night but can also be worn during the day in severe cases.
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to relieve symptoms of CTS by strengthening the muscles in the hand and wrist and improving flexibility. The Therapists & Doctors are Rosedale Chiropractic & Massage Therapy may recommend exercises and stretches that can help to reduce pain and increase range of motion. Some of these include stretching of the wrist muscles and grip strengthening.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture may be helpful in reducing pain and inflammation associated with CTS. Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and relieve pain. The Chiropractors at our clinic are both certified Acupuncture providers and may use this therapy in the treatment of CTS.
IASTM: Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is a manual therapy technique that may be used in conjunction with other treatments to address soft tissue restrictions and muscle imbalances that could be contributing to symptoms of CTS.
Medications & Surgery: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be recommended to help relieve pain and inflammation.
In some cases, surgery may be recommended if non-surgical treatment options are not effective. Carpal tunnel release surgery involves cutting the ligament that is compressing the median nerve to relieve pressure.
It should be noted that if you are considering medical intervention or Over-the-Counter medication, it is best to consult your Medical Doctor first. It is outside the Scope of Practice for Chiropractors to make recommendations on medication.
Conclusion:
If you are experiencing symptoms of CTS as described above, it may be time to consider visiting the Doctors at Rosedale Chiropractic & Massage Clinic to have a proper assessment and lay out an effective and efficient care plan.
"Carpal tunnel syndrome" - Mayo Clinic (https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20355603)
"Carpal Tunnel Syndrome" - American Society for Surgery of the Hand (https://www.assh.org/handcare/hand-arm-conditions/carpal-tunnel-syndrome)
"Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Fact Sheet" - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Carpal-Tunnel-Syndrome-Fact-Sheet)
"Carpal Tunnel Syndrome" - American Physical Therapy Association (https://www.choosept.com/symptomsconditionsdetail/physical-therapy-guide-to-carpal-tunnel-syndrome)
"Acupuncture for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" - The Journal of Pain (https://www.jpain.org/article/S1526-5900(19)30589-9/fulltext)
"Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization" - American Physical Therapy Association (https://www.apta.org/your-practice/outcomes-measurement/choosing-outcomes-measures/instrument-assisted-soft-tissue-mobilization)
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