Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Many people in Eugene, Oregon are looking for carpal tunnel relief and evaluating the various treatment options as it relates to carpal tunnel treatment without surgery. Let’s briefly discuss the anatomy of the wrist and explain what carpal tunnel syndrome is.
Carpal Tunnel Anatomy
The bones in your wrist form a “U” shaped tunnel that provides space for several tendons and your median nerve to pass through which is called the carpal tunnel. When the nerve is compressed or “pinched”, it causes irritation which can lead to pain, tingling or numbness in your hand. Early non-surgical treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome can be very important as it can worsen as time goes on. Who gets carpal tunnel syndrome?
Women are 2-3x more likely than men, desk workers, carpenters, electricians, plumbers, assembly line workers, grocery store clerks etc. Repetitive motion in your arms and wrists is one of the main contributing factors.
Risk factors for Carpal tunnel syndrome:
Diabetes, thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis, alcoholism, kidney disease and obesity, cold weather, repetitive motion, and significant vibration exposure.
Can carpal tunnel be treated without surgery?
Carpal tunnel syndrome can be treated without the use of surgery. There is a higher likelihood of success if symptoms are treated earlier.
Non-surgical Carpal tunnel treatment:
Lifestyle modifications, bracing or splinting of affected wrist, stretching, medication, exercise, chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue manipulation/ mobilization (Graston technique or ART), therapeutic massage and surgery (carpal tunnel release).