When the medial nerve, which runs from the forearm to the hand, becomes compressed in an area of the wrist known as the carpal tunnel, the patient will experience a wide range of symptoms:
- Burning
- Tingling
- Numbness
- Inability to detect hot and cold
- Weakened grip
- Wasting away of muscles at the base of the thumb
Caused by using the hands and wrist to perform repetitive motions, carpal tunnel syndrome is one of the most expensive work-related injuries and can cost the patient over $30,000 in lost wages and medical expenses.
Although it is commonly thought to affect people in occupations that require hours of keyboard use, it is actually found more often found in employees involved with:
- Meatpacking
- Manufacturing
- Sewing
- Cleaning
- Finishing
Before committing to have surgery for your carpal tunnel syndrome, try chiropractic care first. We have several non-invasive methods at our disposal to successfully treat carpal tunnel syndrome and restore comfort and mobility to your wrists and hands.
To prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from occurring, follow these helpful tips from the American Chiropractic Association:
- Take frequent rest breaks
- Perform stretching and light exercises while at work
- Wear splints to keep your wrists straight
- Make sure you are sitting up straight and holding our hands in the proper position
- Rotate repetitive jobs with coworkers
- Wear fingerless gloves to keep the hands warm and flexible