Carpal Tunnel in Madison, OH
Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by inflammation in a narrow channel inside the wrist. The inflammation puts pressure on the nerve that in turn, reduces mobility and causes pain. The expert chiropractors at French Chiropractic and Wellness Center in Madison specialize in carpal tunnel treatments for the residents of Painesville, Mentor and surrounding towns in Ohio.
What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a relatively common disease that is most often characterized by numbness, tingling, muscle atrophy, and discomfort around the hands and wrists. For many individuals, this syndrome develops due to repetitive motions such as typing on a keyboard. When the wrist is positioned poorly for a long period of time, and the median nerve traveling through the hand and wrist becomes pinched or compressed, carpal tunnel syndrome may develop.
What is the Cause of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The median nerve is, in fact, a nerve bundle that allows sensation along the thumb-side of the ring finger. This bundle is also one of the primary nerves that help supply motion and dexterity to the hand and fingers. This medical condition is called carpal tunnel syndrome because the median nerve travels through the hand in between the carpal bones and a rigid membrane between the bones. If there is any damage to the carpal bones or the surrounding membrane, the area will swell slightly, pinch the median nerve, and cause carpal tunnel syndrome.
What are the Symptoms of Carpel Tunnel Syndrome?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can manifest itself in a slightly different manner for every patient, but the most common symptoms include
- Numbness or tingling in the thumbs and the closest fingers to the thumbs
- Difficulty carrying items or lifting weights (especially items without proper grips)
- Impaired finger movement
- Reduced dexterity and coordination
- Pain extending up to the elbow
- Weakness in one or both hands
- Tingling or numbness in the palm of the hand or hands
- Any discomfort around the fingers, hands, wrists and forearms
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
In most situations, doctors will suggest the use of non-surgical options before surgery is carried out. While carpal tunnel surgeries can be effective, they could leave the patient without the use of their hands during recovery. Some of the most common non-surgical options include
- Carpal adjustments
- Wrist splints
- Pain medication
- Anti-inflammatories
- Changing positions while typing or doing any other repetitive tasks
- Injecting a steroid into the carpal tunnel area of the wrist to reduce swelling
If non-surgical treatments have been ineffective or the doctor notices any signs of permanent damage near the carpal tunnel bones or along the median nerve, they may suggest surgery.
Isn’t it time you tried chiropractic care for you and your family? If you are experiencing any of the common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, please contact our office now to schedule an appointment.