Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Specialist
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that describes a collection of symptoms such as a stinging sensation, numbness, and weakness in the wrist or hand. It usually develops when the median nerve in the wrist/hand is compressed. Initially, the pain is sporadic and becomes worse over time. It is important to get treatment for Carpal Tunnel pain immediately to avoid long-term damage.
Dr. Gregory Lee DC at Active Family Wellness is experienced in treating carpal tunnel syndrome. He is one of the best Fairfax chiropractors in Virginia. Give us a call if you are experiencing wrist pain or any other symptoms of Carpal tunnel syndrome.
What Is Carpal Tunnel?
A Carpal tunnel is a slender tube or channel in the wrist that allows the median nerve and some tendons to link up the hand and forearm. The carpal tunnel includes carpal bones and ligaments.
The carpal bones form the structure of the bottom and margins of the carpal tunnel. They are arranged into a semi-circle-like framework. The ligaments are tough tissues that build up the top of the carpal tunnel and hold the entire tunnel together.
A nerve that supplies sensation to all the hand’s fingers, except the little finger, is called the Median nerve. The median nerve runs inside the carpal tunnel, from the forearm, through the wrists to the fingers.
Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome may include:
- Loss of sensation in the fingers of your hand
- A burning or stinging feeling in most fingers of the hand
- Pain in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers
- A moving, creeping, or shock-like wave or feeling from the wrist to the tip of most fingers. This pain may also move from your arm toward the shoulder blades.
- Clumsiness and weakness in the hand, make it a huge challenge to perform tasks such as typing or unbuttoning shirts
- You may drop objects more frequently because your hand is weak and clumsy
Causes of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
When compressed by a swollen carpal tunnel, the median nerve that supplies sensation to the hand and fingers results in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
However, certain groups of people are most likely to have carpal tunnel syndrome:
- Workers with vibrating tools, grip equipment, or who bend their wrists all the time
- History of wrist/hand injury
- Siblings or offspring of people with carpal tunnel syndrome
- Patients with other ailments such as diabetes, arthritic conditions
Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
It is also best to consult a Fairfax chiropractor to start interventions as early as possible. A chiropractor will often perform adjustments, laser therapy, exercises, splints, etc.
Long-Term Problems Due to Ignoring Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While symptoms may be intermittent in the beginning, these symptoms reoccur and may cause permanent damage. They can significantly affect your life and your work.
As the condition progresses, there can be permanent nerve damage in very bad situations, and the hand becomes less useful. The most effective method to manage carpal tunnel syndrome is to see a chiropractor.
Temporary Pain Relief for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The pains from carpal tunnel syndrome can be very discomforting. Some home remedies include:
- Immerse wrists in an ice bath or warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, two times every hour
- Oral pain relievers such as Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen may help temporarily relieve pain, but it is important to speak to a chiropractor right away
- First, you must stop the activity that causes the decompression of the nerve
- Exercise your wrists and fingers using some repeated motions during strenuous finger activities, such as typing, gripping, etc
Does Cracking Your Knuckles Cause Damage?
Many studies do not provide substantial evidence to prove that cracking knuckles may cause Carpal Tunnel syndrome. However, cracking knuckles will not benefit someone who is already diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome. It is highly recommended to consult a Chiropractor before starting any motion exercise to treat carpal tunnel.
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How Do We Treat Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
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Let Us Help to treat your carpal tunnel syndrome
Do not ignore your Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, it can become worse overtime. It’s important to consult with the doctor and understand the root cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Does Medical Insurance Cover the Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Most basic insurance schemes will cover the treatment and medications for a carpal tunnel condition. Call Active Family Wellness in Fairfax, Virginia, for a consultation, and we can help you understand your insurance coverage.
Is it okay to wear a wrist brace?
It could help to get a wrist brace from a nearby pharmacy and wear one. The wrist brace ensures your wrist stays in the appropriate position and prevents you from overstretching your wrist in an unhealthy manner. People with bad sleeping positions and people who type a lot may find a wrist brace very beneficial too. Ultimately, a chiropractor will assess your wrist and decide what is best for you.
How can I check myself for carpal tunnel?
Carpal Tunnel syndromes present with the symptoms of numbness and tingling in all of your fingers (except your little pinky finger). If you have very weak and hurtful hands and may tend to drop objects, you could have carpal tunnel syndrome, and you should see a doctor. The doctor may have you perform some tests (exercises) to further validate his suspicions. These tests include the Tinel’s sign, the Phalen’s maneuver, a Two-Point discrimination test, etc.
What type of jobs can cause carpal tunnel syndrome?
Does massage help carpal tunnel?
Massaging the palm, the fingers, and the forearm can be very cost-effective, easy to perform, and could provide some relief. It is beneficial in mild to moderate cases of Carpal Tunnel syndrome. You may use topical analgesic creams also, apply gentle pressure on the inside of the palm, then each finger, and work your way up to the forearm.
