This syndrome is caused by pressure placed on the median nerve that passes through the small bones of the wrist as it enters the hand. The reason for the pressure on the nerve can vary, but it is commonly due to repetitive strain. Repetitive strain disorders, or RSD, have become an increasing problem in today's society. With more people spending increasing hours at computer keyboards and "mousing," we have seen an increase in carpal tunnel syndrome and similar conditions. People suffering from carpal tunnel and related syndromes describe their symptoms as: pain, numbness, tingling, and sometimes loss of grip strength.
A thorough examination including orthopedic and neurologic testing and X-ray or MRI studies, if necessary, will help to determine your exact diagnosis and individualized treatment plan. The key to successful treatment is removing the inflammation surrounding the median nerve and correcting the underlying biomechanical causes including poor posture, poor ergonomic environment at work, and improper technique while exercising. Joint and soft tissue manipulation, physiotherapy, therapeutic exercise, and modifications of the home, work, and health club routines are very effective in resolving the condition and its related symptoms. Cold laser therapy, massage therapy & myofascial release techniques, and/or homeopathy may also be used in order to resolve the condition.
Also, the chiropractor may arrange for on-site evaluation of your workout routine and/or workplace to correct improper ergonomic conditions, which may be aggravating your condition. Surgery is rarely needed and should only be considered if conservative therapy fails. Repetitive cortisone injection should be avoided as it has been well documented to cause tendon disruption, and places you at risk of further injury for 2 to 6 weeks following injection. However, if after examination we conclude that your case cannot be helped with conservative care, a prompt referral will be made.
PROGRESSIVE HEALTH & WELLNESS BLOG: THE IMPORTANCE OF ERGONOMICS & MICRO-BREAKS : Over time, the human body has adapted very well to the task of hunting for and gathering food. It performs and feels its best when it is in motion during the day, and resting at night. Sitting all day, on the other hand, puts an enormous strain on the sspine and its supporting tendons, ligaments, muscles, and fascia. If you are sitting at a desk and/or computer for more than 1 hour on a regular basis, then you are what we call an “industrial athlete”. For you, proper ergonomics and micro-breaks (discussed in a separate blog) are essential to prevent neck pain, back pain, and headaches, as well as to allow your body to get the best results from your chiropractic care. Proper ergonomics involves having your computer monitor positioned directly in front of you (not off to one side), at eye-level. Your feet should be in full contact with the floor, with your hips and knees bent at approximately a 90 degree angle. It is crucial that your elbows are in at your sides at all times (even when using your keyboard and mouse), no more than 2-3 inches away from your sides or reaching in front of your shoulders. Ideally, your elbows and wrists are resting on an arm rest/wrist rest, either attached to your chair, or your desk. In order for the above requirements to be met, a drop-down keyboard tray and fully adjustable ergonomic chair are usually necessary. Drs. Ezgur and DiDomenico are highly skilled in advising you how to modify your worksite to be ergonomically correct for you. They may also recommend that you request an ergonomic consultation to be performed for you by your employer. Many people don’t realize that most companies are required by law to comply with your request. Read More |