What is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
The median nerve is one of two nerves that travel off the spine located at the base of the neck and top of the shoulders. The nerve travels down the arm and crosses over the wrist. Pressure on the median nerve where it crosses the wrist causes numbness, tingling and loss of motor function in the thumb, forefinger, and middle finger. These symptoms are referred to as “carpal tunnel syndrome.” Carpal tunnel syndrome is common in people who perform repetitive motions of the hand and wrist. Typing on a keyboard, sewing, driving, painting, writing, playing musical instruments and sports can all cause carpal tunnel. Symptoms of carpal tunnel may be felt instantly or develop overtime.
Symptoms include, but are not limited to:
Sharp or shock sensation in the fingers
Hand weakness
Inability to hold objects effectively
Numbness and tingling that radiates up the arm
Burning, tingling, itching or numbness in your palm, thumb, index, and middle fingers
Due to the pain and lack of grip strength, the muscles in your hand may start to decline over time if you do not receive treatment. This is because without treatment the median nerve is no longer functioning properly due to the pressure and pain. As carpal tunnel syndrome progresses it may lead to loss of feeling in the fingers, strength, and inability to use the thumb properly. To better explain, the bones in the wrist are called carpals and they form tunnels in which the median nerve travels thru. When the bones get misaligned, the tunnels are more narrowed, and the carpal bones irritate the median nerve. If not treated properly, uneven pressure remains on the area creating excess wear and tear. This immobility causes the joint to break down faster than normal. The deterioration can lead to long term or even permanent damage. Therefore, it is important to receive proper treatment promptly for carpal tunnel syndrome.
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Treatment for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
The practice of adjusting extremities such as shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, hips, and ankles is one of Dr. Ressler’s many qualifications. Oviedo’s favorite chiropractor, Dr. Ressler uses a special tool called an “activator” to correct the position of the joints located in the extremities. The activator is a spring-loaded device that sends a gentle force to move the joint back into proper place. Unlike a manual chiropractic adjustment, the activator is very precise and only moves the joint out of alignment. Dr. Ressler, Oviedo chiropractor uses the activator to adjust the misalignments in the elbow and wrist region. This restores the joint to its normal position which relieves the pressure on the median nerve and removes the pain. It is a gentle and effective process, making the activator method ideal to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Dr. Ressler will also provide customized set of stretches to help restore normal function to the wrist. He will also give you recommendations on ergonomics to prevent future problems. Carpal tunnel syndrome is not the only condition that can be treated with the activator method. Extremity issues such as tennis elbow, shoulder, knee, or ankle pain are all problems that respond quickly to this treatment.
Oviedo’s top chiropractor understands the importance of treating the entire body, not just the pain associated with carpal tunnel. That is why all patients receive a comprehensive exam so Dr. Ressler can determine the source of your pain. He will evaluate your entire spine and extremities for any joint restrictions. After your evaluation he will create a customized treatment plan in order to give you the quickest and best results.
Looking for a “chiropractor near me?” or a “chiropractor in Oviedo?” Most of OIWC’s patients get relief from pain in only a few visits! Don’t wait until it’s too late and damage has become permanent!! Call 407-977-5005 to treat your carpal tunnel syndrome today!