Carpal Tunnel Treatment Jacksonville

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) develops when the median nerve, which runs down the middle of the hand, becomes compressed by surrounding tissues. This nerve, along with flexor tendons, passes through a rigid, tunnel-like structure at the base of the palm. Swelling or thickening of these tendons can put pressure on the nerve, leading to pain, tingling, and numbness in the thumb, fingers, and wrist, which can sometimes extend up the arm. CTS can result from injury, trauma, or repetitive movements like extensive typing or assembly line work. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it could be carpal tunnel syndrome. Affecting over 5% of Americans, carpal tunnel syndrome is common, but effective treatment options exist. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach, using gentle adjustments to alleviate pressure on the median nerve. Research shows it can significantly reduce pain, improve sensation in the fingers, and enhance range of motion, providing relief and improving quality of life for those dealing with CTS. Occupational hand therapy is a form of carpal tunnel treatment Jacksonville that utilize different interventions to restore function to your upper extremities.

CTS can be an annoying source of pain and discomfort that impacts daily activities and work performance as well as creating limitations for recreational pursuits. Medical treatments like steroid injections are often recommended, but they come with potential risks, side effects, and recovery periods. While surgery is often considered the go-to solution, many find significant improvement through non-surgical options. Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive alternative that targets the root cause of carpal tunnel pain. By adjusting the joints in the wrist, elbow, and cervical spine, chiropractors address nerve compression in the carpal tunnel. Treatments may include manual adjustments, soft tissue therapies to release trigger points, and personalized exercises to enhance range of motion. Our Jacksonville chiropractor takes a whole-body approach to identify and resolve the underlying issues contributing to carpal tunnel symptoms. These can include spinal misalignments, nerve pressure, or stress and dysfunction in the wrist or elbow. Chiropractic adjustments often provide direct, effective relief by treating the cause, rather than just masking the symptoms.

Don't Suffer with Hand or Wrist Pain

Carpal tunnel syndrome is the most common entrapment neuropathy treated in the United States and affects thousands of people annually. This condition occurs when the median nerve in the wrist becomes compressed, often due to swollen tendons in the area. According to an article published by National Institute of Health, a systematic review on managing carpal tunnel pain highlighted the effectiveness of manual therapy techniques, which included chiropractic massage rehab, in effectively reducing pain intensity and improving function in people as a carpal tunnel treatment. Neurodynamic mobilizations improved physical function and nerve conduction studies in patients suffering from CTS hand and wrist pain. While carpal tunnel syndrome is often linked to repetitive activities like typing or using vibrating tools, other causes include wrist arthritis, thyroid disease, and pregnancy. Without treatment, it can progress into a more serious condition that may require surgical intervention. If your job puts significant strain on your wrists, it’s essential to be mindful of the risks and take preventative measures when possible.

The median nerve controls thumb movement and transmits sensory information from the thumb and fingers to the brain. When compressed, it can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, or aching in the hand. These symptoms are often worse at night, sometimes disturbing sleep, but can be temporarily relieved by shaking your hand or letting it hang off the bed. Although it can be harder to treat CTS if your symptoms have existed for some time, it's usually never too late for you to seek chiropractic carpal tunnel treatment so you can comfortably write, type and use your hands daily while taking part in routine activities. For starters, there are things you should avoid if you are experiencing hand or wrist pain. If typing causes pain and you work on a computer, you might try an ergonomic keyboard and mouse that are designed to put your hands at the correct angle. Plus, taking breaks when you’re required to do repetitive activities can help you manage CTS pain. The Hand and Wrist Institute recommends that you make sure you’re not holding items too tight, including a steering wheel, that causes numbness, tingling or weakness in your hands, fingers or wrists.

Can Massage Rehab Reverse CTS Without Surgery?

CTS often causes symptoms like numbness, tingling, and a pins-and-needles sensation, which may not always stay confined to the median nerve. Ignoring these signs while continuing activities that strain the wrist and hand can lead to more severe nerve damage. Early symptoms are usually intermittent and tend to worsen at night or with repetitive hand and wrist movements. Activities such as typing, texting, or gripping vibrating tools are common triggers, as they increase pressure and strain on the wrist. Modern habits, like frequent texting, can overwork the thumbs and wrists, especially when holding a phone without proper support.

Simple Hand, Wrist and Finger Exercises

Fortunately, some relief can be found with non-surgical and non-medication strategies. The following simple exercises are recommended by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy in the United Kingdom to help sufferers manage their carpal tunnel pain throughout their day, such as:

• Wrist Flex - Hold one of your arms straight out with the palm facing down. Then, using the other hand, gently flex the wrist on your extended arm by pulling the finger tips on that hand toward the body for fifteen seconds and release.
• Hand Squeeze - Based on the size of your hand, pick a ball like a tennis ball that fits in your palm. Then, squeeze the ball for 5 seconds and release. Work both hands regardless of whether both hurt.
• Wrist Bends - Rest you elbow on a flat surface like your desk with your arm and hand pointing up. Then, gently bend your wrist both forward and backward while repeatedly holding each position for around five seconds.
• Finger Bends - Hold both of your hands straight out with all of your fingers extended. Then, bend both middle finger joints and hold that position for about five seconds at a time.
• Wrist Lift - Place your affected hand palm down on a flat surface and lay your other hand on top. Then, gently lift the bottom hand using the fingers on that hand up to ten times. 

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when the tissues in the wrist compress the median nerve, which runs from the neck, through the arm, and into the hand via the carpal tunnel, which is a very narrow passageway in the wrist. This condition often causes pain, numbness, or tingling in the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingers. If left untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome can progress, leading to permanent nerve damage and chronic, debilitating symptoms. Chiropractic care offers a safe, non-invasive, and effective solution for relieving tension, strain, and nerve compression. Early chiropractic intervention is essential to promote healing and prevent long-term damage from inflamed and swollen tendons.

Early intervention is key, as carpal tunnel syndrome responds best when addressed promptly. At Beach Boulevard Chiropractic Massage Rehab, we believe in a holistic and non-invasive approach to carpal tunnel treatment. Led by Jacksonville chiropractor Dr. Brian Winkler, our clinic provides expert care tailored to your needs, leveraging advanced techniques to promote natural healing and avoid invasive procedures. Your treatment begins with a thorough examination of your hand and arm. If needed, x-rays are ordered to accurately diagnose the condition. He focuses on adjustments to the wrist, elbow, and upper spine, ensuring your spine is properly aligned to relieve nerve pressure. For pain management, ultrasound therapy may also be utilized. Once the healing process begins, we guide you through range-of-motion exercises to alleviate pressure and build strength in the affected area. Start your recovery today by scheduling a consultation, as we’re here to help you feel better faster.