Chiropractor In Fall River MA Carpal Tunnel Injuries and Chiropractic Care

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is one of many work-related injuries for workers in certain industries.  For sufferers of CTS or for those who have loved ones with the condition, chiropractic care can be one important part of the treatment process.

Definition of CTS
Located from the forearm into the hand, the median nerve is affected by CTS.  A narrow tunnel, known as the carpal tunnel, is the location where the median nerve becomes compressed.  The carpal tunnel is the location of a number of bones and soft tissues, where nerves, ligaments, tendons, and blood vessels reside.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel
The compression that results produces pain, weakness, and/or numbness in the wrist and hand, which can radiate up into the forearm.  These feelings in the hand and thumb, index, and middle fingers are the most common areas that CTS affects.  Some people experience tingling and the inability to distinguish hot and cold.

Prevalence of Wrist Injuries in Certain Fields
Smaller carpel tunnels in some people make them more likely for CTS.  Other causes such as diabetes, arthritis, and poor work ergonomics can cause CTS as well.  CTS is common in assembly-line workers in areas such as sewing, finishing, cleaning, manufacturing, and meatpacking.  Recent research has demonstrated that those who perform data-entry at a computer (up to 7 hours a day) are not more likely to develop CTS.

Prevention of CTS injuries
Your chiropractor can help you if you are concerned about the prevention of CTS, which is especially crucial if you are at an increased risk.  Taking frequent breaks, performing on-the-job conditioning, correct posture and rest position, and the use of splints and fingerless gloves (which keeps the hands warm and flexible) are all methods that can be used to prevent CTS.  

Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Typical treatment includes a number of prophylactic and avoidance-related points.  Initially CTS sufferers should rest the affected hand and wrist and avoid activities that may worsen the symptoms.  Applying cool packs to reduce swelling and immobilizing the wrist into splints can also help.  Vitamin B6 has also been shown to help.

Chiropractic Care
If you or someone you know is suffering from CTS, chiropractic care should be considered.  Although in some cases surgery may be needed, for many cases, and especially for those which have been detected early, chiropractic care can help with the symptoms and prevent CTS from developing or reoccurring.

Mobilization of the wrist and hand combined with chiropractic joint manipulation are effective techniques, which may be performed for CTS sufferers.  These treatments are also combined with stretching and strengthening exercises, soft-tissue mobilization techniques, and even yoga.   

For More Information
For more information, you should contact your chiropractic care provider.  Those who think they may have CTS should immediately contact a professional, as early treatment is key.  Those who do not have a chiropractic care provider should consider seeing a chiropractor.  Chiropractic care can be extremely helpful for the detection, prevention, and treatment of CTS.