How to Alleviate Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Carpal tunnel syndrome, which is characterized by numbness, tingling, and aching in the hand and arm, has become a widespread concern, especially in the age of constant computer use. And, the more it affects an individual, the harder it can be to perform everyday tasks.

The carpal tunnel is a small passageway in the wrist, and it allows the median nerve to pass through the wrist. If this nerve gets compressed in this passageway, this can lead to the symptoms listed above.

If you’re plagued by carpal tunnel syndrome, there’s hope. Our providers at Health Advantage Physical Medicine in Pasadena, California, offer innovative carpal tunnel treatments that can help you get the relief you need.

Chiropractic manipulation

While it might seem surprising, chiropractic care isn't limited to the spine. Through chiropractic techniques, our expert chiropractors at Health Advantage Physical Medicine can manipulate the bones and joints in the wrist and hand to promote realignment. This can ease stress on the median nerve and bring relief from symptoms.

Additionally, carpal tunnel syndrome is often related to poor posture while working at a computer, and this posture can affect not only your hands and wrists, but it can also affect your spine. Our chiropractors can use techniques to correct misalignments of the spine, which may alleviate the pressure causing pain in your wrists and hands. 

Platelet-rich plasma therapy

Tapping into the body's reservoir of healing potential, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy is a type of regenerative medicine. This therapy uses a patient's platelets, which are able to help spur healing and tissue regeneration.

First, your provider draws some of your blood. Then, your provider places it in a centrifuge, which separates the platelets from the rest of the components in your blood. Then, your provider takes the resulting platelet serum and injects it into the injured area, where the platelets go straight to work helping to repair tissues and reduce inflammation. 

At Health Advantage Physical Medicine, we've seen firsthand the wonders of PRP when introduced into the carpal tunnel region. Not only can it reduce symptoms, but it can also help fortify the structures that surround the median nerve.

Corticosteroid injections

The intensity of carpal tunnel syndrome can sometimes demand swift and effective remedies, and this is where corticosteroid injections can be beneficial. Administered directly into the carpal tunnel, these injections can dramatically reduce inflammation. 

While the relief they offer is temporary, they can give patients respite as they explore other treatment strategies.

Lifestyle changes

Our routines and habits, which often go unnoticed, can improve our health and well-being — or be a hindrance. Evaluating and modifying certain factors — such as a home-office setup — can go a long way toward reducing wrist strain.

You can also get relief by making sure to take breaks, engaging in simple wrist exercises, and not overusing the affected wrist.

Wearing a splint

Support is sometimes the best remedy. Wrist splints offer this support, ensuring the wrist remains in a neutral position, especially during the night, when inadvertent bending can exacerbate symptoms.

During the day, splints can serve as both protective gear and a reminder to maintain proper wrist posture. It's a modest intervention that can offer profound help in the battle against carpal tunnel syndrome.

If you struggle with carpal tunnel syndrome, we can help. We can give your wrist a thorough evaluation and discuss your next steps. To learn more, call 626-605-2728 or book an appointment online with Health Advantage Physical Medicine today.