Carpal Tunnel Treatment In Portland, ME

Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by the compression of the median nerve as it travels through the carpal tunnel in the wrist. This compression can result from various factors, including repetitive hand movements, wrist anatomy, or underlying health conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis. Symptoms typically include pain, numbness, and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, as well as weakness in the hand. 

What are the symptoms? 

Common symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include numbness and tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers, especially at night. Patients may also experience hand weakness, difficulty gripping objects, and a tendency to drop things. In more severe cases, pain and discomfort may extend up the arm toward the shoulder. 

How We Treat Carpal Tunnel In Portland, ME 

Comprehensive Consultation and Exam 

At Chiropractic & Sports Health, we begin with a comprehensive consultation and exam to accurately diagnose carpal tunnel syndrome. This process includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and specialized tests to assess nerve function and pinpoint the exact cause of the symptoms. Identifying the root cause is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan tailored to each patient’s needs. 

Specific Chiropractic Care in Portland, ME 

Carpal tunnel syndrome often has connections to misalignments in the cervical spine and wrist. Chiropractic adjustments at Chiropractic & Sports Health help reduce pressure on the median nerve by correcting these misalignments, improving nerve function and alleviating symptoms. By addressing the root cause, chiropractic care provides a long-term solution for carpal tunnel syndrome. 

 Custom Therapeutic Exercise Plan 

Exercises are essential for carpal tunnel relief as they strengthen the muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance nerve function. We design custom therapeutic exercise plans tailored to each patient's specific needs. These exercises target both the symptoms and the underlying causes, promoting overall hand and wrist health. 

 Soft Tissue Work 

Soft tissue work is highly effective in treating carpal tunnel syndrome by reducing muscle tension, improving circulation, and decreasing inflammation. Techniques such as myofascial release and trigger point therapy, provided at Chiropractic & Sports Health, help to relieve pain and restore function in the affected areas. 

Who is Most At Risk For Developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome? 

Desk Workers 

Desk workers are at high risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome due to prolonged computer use and poor ergonomics. Preventative measures include taking regular breaks, using ergonomic keyboards and mouse setups, and ensuring proper posture. Chiropractic care at Chiropractic & Sports Health can help relieve existing symptoms and prevent further issues by addressing spinal and wrist alignment. 

Meat and Fish Processing Workers 

Meat and fish processing workers are also at high risk due to repetitive hand and wrist movements. Preventative strategies include ergonomic interventions and regular hand exercises. Chiropractic care can help alleviate symptoms by reducing inflammation and ensuring proper joint alignment. 

Diabetics 

Diabetics are more prone to carpal tunnel syndrome because high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage and increased inflammation. Managing blood sugar levels and incorporating regular chiropractic care at Chiropractic & Sports Health can help reduce the risk and alleviate symptoms by improving nerve function and reducing inflammation. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can a chiropractor in Portland, Maine do anything about carpal tunnel? 

Yes, chiropractors can provide effective treatments for carpal tunnel syndrome by addressing misalignments in the spine and wrist, reducing nerve compression, and alleviating symptoms. 

What helps carpal tunnel heal faster? 

Chiropractic care, therapeutic exercises, proper ergonomics, and avoiding repetitive strain can help carpal tunnel heal faster. 

What happens if carpal tunnel goes untreated? 

Untreated carpal tunnel syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage, muscle atrophy, chronic pain, and loss of hand function. 

Which activities make carpal tunnel worse? 

Activities that involve repetitive hand and wrist movements, such as typing, knitting, or using vibrating tools, can exacerbate carpal tunnel symptoms. 

Is heat or ice better for carpal tunnel? 

Both heat and ice can be beneficial; ice helps reduce inflammation and numb pain, while heat can relax muscles and improve blood flow. 

How do you know when carpal tunnel is severe? 

Severe carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by constant pain, significant numbness, muscle weakness, and difficulty performing daily tasks. 

How do I stop my hands from going numb when I sleep? 

Wearing a wrist splint at night, avoiding sleeping on your hands, and ensuring proper wrist positioning can help prevent numbness during sleep. 

Can you heal carpal tunnel in Portland, Maine without surgery? 

Yes, many patients find relief from carpal tunnel syndrome with non-surgical treatments such as chiropractic care, exercises, and ergonomic adjustments. 

What causes carpal tunnel to flare up? 

Repetitive hand movements, improper wrist positioning, and underlying health conditions can cause carpal tunnel syndrome to flare up.