Find Relief from Chronic Wrist Pain and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome with Chiropractic Care
Wrist pain can be incredibly frustrating and disruptive, especially if you use your hands for work, hobbies, or exercise. Whether you suspect you have carpal tunnel syndrome or have been dealing with chronic wrist pain, chiropractic care and decompression therapy can help. At North Alabama Spine & Rehab, we take a holistic approach to treating wrist injuries, providing therapy that helps the body to heal itself. Let’s explore how chiropractic care and decompression therapy can relieve wrist pain, and answer some common questions about this type of treatment.
What causes wrist pain?
Wrist pain can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the most common causes is repetitive use or strain, often the result of certain types of work or recreational activities. Repetitive movements, such as typing on a keyboard or using a mouse, can lead to inflammation and pain, resulting in conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome. Sports like tennis or golf that involve a significant amount of wrist movement can also lead to strain and injury.
In addition to repetitive strain, injuries from falls or accidents can cause wrist pain. A sprain or fracture can lead to lingering discomfort, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Age can also play a role, as degenerative conditions like arthritis become more common with advancing years.
Furthermore, certain health conditions, such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, can affect the nerves and cause wrist pain. In other cases, an underlying issue in the neck or upper spine can result in referred pain in the wrist. It’s important to seek medical advice if you’re experiencing persistent wrist pain, as early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent long-term damage and disability.
How does chiropractic care help with wrist pain?
Chiropractic care is a form of medicine that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. It involves manipulating the spine and other joints to alleviate pain and improve function. When it comes to treating wrist injuries, chiropractic care can help by realigning the bones and joints that make up the wrist. This can relieve pressure on the nerves and reduce inflammation, which can be the root cause of pain.
What is decompression therapy, and how does it help with wrist pain?
Decompression therapy is a non-surgical, traction-based therapy that aims to relieve pressure on the spine and joints. It can also be used to treat wrist pain by reducing the pressure on the nerves and other tissues in the wrist. This can help to alleviate pain and promote healing. During decompression therapy, you will lie on a table while a traction device gently stretches the affected area. This can provide almost immediate relief from wrist pain.
What causes carpal tunnel syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that occurs when the median nerve in the wrist is compressed. This can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and wrist. There are several causes of carpal tunnel syndrome, including repetitive motions, arthritis, diabetes, and pregnancy.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is typically diagnosed through a combination of a patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and diagnostic tests. In the physical exam, the doctor will check for physical abnormalities such as swelling, discoloration, or deformity. They may also use a technique called Tinel’s sign, tapping on the median nerve to see if it causes tingling in the fingers.
Another test is the Phalen’s maneuver, where the patient holds their arms out in front of them and bends their wrists, with the backs of the hands pressed together. Tingling in the fingers within a minute may indicate CTS.
In some cases, additional diagnostic tests such as Electromyography (EMG) or a nerve conduction study may be performed. An EMG measures the electrical activity in muscles and can detect if muscle damage has occurred. A nerve conduction study measures how fast electrical signals move through a nerve. These tests can help confirm the diagnosis of CTS and rule out other conditions.
If you’ve been diagnosed with CTS, communicate it with Dr. Adam Shafran before beginning treatment, so that your treatment plan is curated carefully and appropriately for your needs.
Is chiropractic care safe for wrist injuries?
Chiropractic care is generally safe for patients with wrist injuries. Dr. Adam Shafran is trained to manipulate the joints safely and effectively, and will perform a thorough evaluation before starting any treatment. If you have a specific concern about the safety of chiropractic care for your wrist injury, talk to Dr. Shafran before beginning treatment to explain your concerns, as well as any special circumstances he should know about.
Chiropractic Care for Wrist Pain – North Alabama Spine & Rehab
If you’re dealing with chronic wrist pain or suspect you have carpal tunnel syndrome, chiropractic care and decompression therapy can offer effective relief. At North Alabama Spine & Rehab, we specialize in using these techniques to treat wrist injuries of all kinds. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help you get back to doing the things you love without pain or discomfort.
