There are about 3 million cases of carpal tunnel syndrome reported amongst Americans each year. Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is characterized by shooting pains, or numbness and tingling in the hands, fingers, and arms. There are many different known factors at hand which can cause CTS. For example, repetitive working patterns involving the hands and wrists, pregnancy, obesity, and rheumatoid arthritis are all potential causes that can either provoke or increase the risk of developing carpal tunnel. At Life Health Medical Center, we understand this painful condition, and are prepared to treat it by applying the proper techniques of structural integration. We can help you to finally find the relief that you’ve been searching for with our carpal tunnel treatment!
What is Carpal Tunnel?
Located at the base of the palms are tendons and nerves which pass through a “tunnel.” When the tunnel becomes compressed or pinched, it creates a numbing or tingling sensation which is felt in the hands and arms as a result. Weakness is also possible and may cause you to drop objects. Although most cases are caused by unknown reasons, carpal tunnel syndrome is typically developed by repetitive movements involving the hands and wrists. For example, computer work, maneuvering tools that vibrate or are mobile, and motions that require a strong or tight grip for proper operation. Numbness and tingling sensations can begin developing in the thumbs and fingers, and even extend up into the palms, wrists and arms.
Risk Factors
There are several factors that can increase your risk of carpal tunnel.
- Obesity. The excess body mass around the joints in the hands and wrists can compress the “tunnel” and cause carpal tunnel.
- Gender. Women are more likely to suffer from this condition then men are.
- Medications. Some medication cause inflammation in overworked joints and can result in carpal tunnel.
- Workplace. Jobs requiring repetitive actions with hands and wrists such as computer work, or those requiring tight grips can increase the potential risk of suffering from carpal tunnel.
- Anatomy. Some patients have a bone structure prone to this compression.
- Inflammatory diseases. Diseases that cause inflammation within the body increase the person’s risk for CTS by putting pressure on the median nerve.
Doctors are not completely sure the cause of this condition and why some people are more prone to it than others, but have found that these may increase your chances.
Carpal Tunnel Treatment
Our skilled physical therapists at Life Health Medical Center will pinpoint the sources of your pain, and help you to treat symptoms by incorporating the Gonstead Method. This method includes five criteria to detect issues in the joints. The criteria includes: visualization, instrumentation, static palpation, motion palpation, and x-ray analysis. This method gives our doctors a better picture of your condition that we can use to treat your unique situation. We can teach you special techniques that can be practiced at home. Our individualized patient treatment plans are tailored specifically with your exact needs in mind. A customized step-by-step program will not only help to promote natural healing but will also help to improve your overall quality of life.
When to Schedule Your Visit with Us
Most people that suffer from carpal tunnel syndrome tend to go without any kind of treatment or therapy, preventing them from enjoying the everyday activities that they love to do. If you have been diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome, or if you are experiencing similar-like symptoms, please contact Life Health Medical Center in Salt Lake City today. Our physical therapists will integrate an ideal program designed with your specific needs in mind, so that you can get back on the road to a full recovery.
