What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome or CTS, is a common condition that we are asked about in our chiropractic clinic in Olympia, Washington State. CTS generally starts as a slow gradual condition which causes weakness in their grip and hand, generally with pain in the wrist as well. It’s quite common that a patient doesn’t actually recall when the condition arose.
Actually identifying the causes and effects of CTS is quite a process, as while there are many things that can be tested, there is no one test that will say for sure. The physical exam may include a sensory or a motor exam, the doctor may even order a electromyography/nerve conduction velocity test as well. It’s also important to assess areas of the neck, shoulder, arm as areas of neurological compression.
Moreover, factors that need ruling out for CTS are diabetes, hypothyroid, pregnancy, menopause, arthritis and much more. It can be a lengthy process.
To treat carpal tunnel syndrome, chiropractic care offers manual therapies such as myofascial release, massage, and chiropractic manipulation or adjustment of the area. This includes not only the wrist and hand, but also the spine, shoulders and neck as these too can contribute to pain in the wrist. Also, a chiropractor may also suggest a night splints or a brace, recommend rest, and even suggest time off work or a change in the work environment so as not to aggravate the condition. Lifestyle change may be needed.
And depending on the seriousness of the condition, it may well be that a team approach with a medical doctor take place where anti inflammatory drugs will help reduce pain and inflammation while a chiropractor can get in and help fix the problem. Massage therapy too has been shown to help the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome.
If you suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome, why not give us a call 360-951-4504 and see if an adjustment or massage therapy can help you. Perhaps the two together may be what you need. Read more about carpal tunnel syndrome and what we can do here.
