Carpal Tunnel Specialist

What Is Carpal Tunnel?

Carpal tunnel syndrome, often simply called carpal tunnel, refers to a group of symptoms caused by excess pressure on the main nerve in the wrist, the median nerve. Carpal tunnel often occurs in people who make repetitive motions with their hands, for example, people who work at a computer typing all day.

What Are the Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel?

One of the most easily recognizable symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome is pain in the wrist, hand and fingers. Carpal tunnel sufferers may also experience numbness or tingling in the hands. Some people have weakness in the hands and fingers, reducing their ability to grasp objects or form a tight fist comfortably.

What Is the Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel treatment is often addressed very effectively with chiropractic care. Because spinal misalignment can contribute to the carpal tunnel symptoms, correction of the spinal position can provide great relief in many cases. In particular, the chiropractor may focus on the upper spine for carpal tunnel patients. The chiropractor may also use several other non-invasive types of treatment for carpal tunnel patients, ultrasound therapy, for example, to reduce inflammation and help reduce pain. In addition, paraffin wax, myofascial release, kinesiology taping and wrist/hand exercises can be used to expedite pain relief. Ice and compression applied to the area can also reduce inflammation.

How Can Carpal Tunnel Be Prevented?

Patients who suffer from carpal tunnel often ask what they can do to prevent it from recurring. Several lifestyle changes can also be very helpful in both carpal tunnel treatment and prevention. Rest of the affected wrist and hand is important. Continuing to use the wrist and hand in the same way without rest will only cause the problem to worsen and could contribute to it becoming a chronic issue. The chiropractor may also give the patient a set of prescribed exercises that will help reduce pain as they strengthen the affected area. When patients notice carpal tunnel symptoms, the best prevention is to seek help from the Dr. Steven Perry right away.