Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The position of the hand and wrist can ease or worsen the symptoms of
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Temporary relief from symptoms is often
obtained by shaking the affected hand in the air, elevating the wrist,
or placing the hand in hot water. Placing the wrist in an extended or
flexed position, especially for a prolonged period of time, aggravates
the symptoms and the condition.
Since decreasing blood flow to the area increases symptoms, it is
believed that the median nerve irritation is a result of poor blood
supply through the tunnel to the nerve. There may also be a
slight amount of hand discoloration, due to this suspected circulatory
deficiency.
Although part of the thumb may be involved, the general area of
involvement is felt in the index and middle finger. There may be slight
difficulty or clumsiness associated with this condition. This is due to
the lack of proper nerve function. Grip strength is usually only
slightly decreased; however, patients who have this condition regularly
report periods of weakness and may have problems with dropping things.
If you think you are suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, your Doctor
of Chiropractic can help diagnose this condition. A careful examination
and history can help your chiropractor outline a corrective or
palliative (way of controlling and decreasing the symptoms) course of
treatment for you to follow.
Chiropractic therapies that help this condition are manipulation of the
wrist bones to improve circulation through the tunnel, proper
stretching, conditioning, bracing (thumb-loop night brace),
therapeutic, and nutritional measures (Extra B6, bromelain, etc.). It
is important to follow the advice of your doctor, as this condition is
not easily helped by exercise. Ultrasound also demonstrates
disappointing results, as the swelling inside the tunnel is shielded by
the wrist bones that make up the tunnel. Use of hot and cold hand soaks
my therefore be recommended instead of ultrasound therapy to help treat
this condition.
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Articles posted on this site are for informational purposes only.
Articles are not intended for self-diagnosis or treatment. Users of
this site should consult with their doctors before making any decisions
regarding their health care.
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