Wrists hurt? Here's how we help relieve Carpal Tunnel Syndrome!

Here's how the doctors at 1st Choice Health & Wellness Center have helped so many people who suffer from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS).

Q: What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

A: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) occurs when the median nerve is pinched or inflamed. The median nerve is located just above the wrist. The carpal tunnel is at the base of the palm of your hand and is made of bones, tendons, and a thick ligament that surround the median nerve.

The pinching is often a result of sustained activities like typing, hammering, or pushing. Many believe that constant repetitive use of the hand causes the problem.

Q: What are the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

People who suffer from CTS injuries have a range of similar symptoms – including: pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, and loss of grip strength. Even though numbness feels like it occurs in the entire hand, normally it is only in the thumb, index, and middle fingers. Pay attention to where the numbness occurs, as it will help your doctor identify the specific nerve that is damaged. Often you may wake up with a painfully numb feeling in your hand. You may drop small items due to the weakness in your wrist. If you are experiencing these symptoms, you should consult 1st Choice Health & Wellness Center as soon as possible. The earlier CTS is treated, the quicker the recovery.

Q: How common is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

CTS is the most common nerve problem affecting peoples' hands and it can happen to anyone. However, the majority of affected people include women between 40 and 55 years old. Sometimes young women get carpal tunnel symptoms while pregnant. Golfers, secretaries, carpenters, weightlifters, and meat packers also get carpal tunnel syndrome. CTS has become the most significant medical problem affecting workers at the turn of the century, accounting for nearly 60% of work related injuries.

Q: How does 1st Choice Health & Wellness Center treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

CTS can be painful and debilitating but early carpal tunnel treatment can lead to a quicker recovery. Chiropractic manipulation has shown to be the most effective method of carpal tunnel treatment because chiropractors are experts in the nervous system. We will perform an x-ray to help determine the extent of your injury. While some physicians will prescribe medications or inject steroids (often cortisone) to temporarily relieve pain and swelling, it does not treat the problem. Some doctors even recommend surgery in extreme cases. However, surgery can scar the ligament, and this may even weaken the ligament. Then the pain will often reoccur. Surgery should always be your last resort.

Regardless of the treatment, full recovery will only come about by avoiding stressful situations and changing work habits.